According to Professor Monela’s task force, the Tanzanian government can take several additional steps to improve the economic benefits from ngitili and thus their anti-poverty impact (Monela et al. 2004:10). These include:
Support better Ngitili management
The state can provide technical help and targeted research specifically aimed at raising ngitili productivity. For example, it could help improve fodder productivity by introducing more nutritive and productive tree, shrub, and grass species. And it can research the best methods and timing of cutting and pruning ngitili trees to maximize production.
Monitor ngitili trends and facilitate lesson-sharing
The state is in a unique position to offer certain kinds of support that require a national rather than local perspective. For example, using satellite imagery the state could track nationwide changes in land use and biodiversity related to ngitili restoration to help HASHI officials understand the macroscale impact of their activities and better target their aid. The state can also mount a national effort to document ngitili-related benefits and innovations, helping communities to share their successes and learn from others through public education campaigns and knowledge networks.
Expand markets for Ngitili products
Increasing the income stream from ngitilis will help sustain Shinyanga’s land-use renaissance by making ngitilis even more essential to local livelihoods. One of the most effective ways to do this is to expand the markets for ngitili products. The state can help by supporting small-scale processing plants to diversify and add value to ngitili products (by making timber into furniture, for example); by removing burdensome regulations and other barriers to ngitili expansion and the establishment of local enterprises based on ngitili products; and by helping households access local and regional markets for their ngitili products by providing relevant and timely market information.
