Browsing by Author "Andindilile, William"

Now showing 1 - 1 of 1
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
    Population Dyanamics and deferostation in Mbozi District,in Mbeya region
    (University of Dar es Salaam, 2007) Andindilile, William
    This study was undertaken in Mbozi district, Mbeya Region, Tanzania. The main objective of this study was to examine the impact of rapid population increase on forest resources in Tanzania with specific reference to Mbozi district. The study involved 200 respondents who were sampled through multi stage and stratified random sampling techniques. Various research methods were employed in the study including structured interviews, informal interviews, and observations to collect data on socio-economic characteristics of the respondents. Likewise the Landsat image and land use map were used to collect data on land uses at different periods. The results revealed that Mbozi district is experiencing rapid population increase with an annual growth rate of 4.9. The main factors leading to population increase are natural increase and in-migration. The growing population is leading to deforestation through various activities such as subsistence agriculture, settlement expansion, livestock keeping, brick making, and charcoal making. Also, high demand of fuel wood from natural forest is leading to deforestation in the study area. The findings also show that expanding human activities as a result of population increase have reduced the forest cover in the district significantly over time. It is indicated in the findings that if the current rate of population increase and conversion of forest land to other uses are not averted, natural forested areas will disappear in the district.