The Importance of Frame Participation in Rehabilitating Regarded Uluguru Mountain Slopes: The Experiences from Magadu and Towero Villages in Morogoro Region, Tanzania

Abstract

The land of the Uluguru mountain slopes located above the Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) main campus is characterized by degraded poor soils with deep gullies endangering the University infrastructures and the lives of the local people. To curb further damage to the environment, SUA initiated the Uluguru Mountain Integrated Soil Conservation Project (UMISCP). Farmers from two villages were involved from the beginning in carrying out rehabilitation and land management activities. Through participation, farmers identified themselves with the project and were able to determine and implement the strategies deemed relevant for rehabilitating the degraded areas. The strategies which were used to involve farmers and the achievements attained due to farmer participation in the project are described in this article. Authors are of the opinion that some of the experiences encountered could provide lessons to similar development oriented projects.