Governance Systems and Natural Resource Management Quality in Tanzania: A Cross-Sectoral Review of Evolution, Challenges, and Pathways for Reform

Abstract

Natural resources, including forests, water, wildlife, and fisheries, are central to Tanzania’s socio-economic development and the livelihoods of its rural population. Over recent decades, governance of these resources has shifted from centralized state-led models toward more inclusive, decentralized, and community-based systems in response to environmental degradation and sustainability imperatives. Despite reforms such as Participatory Forest Management (PFM) and Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), persistent challenges, including institutional fragmentation, elite capture, legal ambiguities, and limited local capacity, continue to undermine governance effectiveness. This study provides a wide-ranging, cross-sectoral review of the evolution, challenges, and future directions of natural resource governance in Tanzania. Grounded in institutional economics, political ecology, and participatory governance theories, it examines how different governance systems, state-led, co-management, community-based, and hybrid models, affect the quality and equity of resource management across forestry, wildlife, water, and fisheries sectors. Through a narrative synthesis of peer-reviewed and grey literature (2000–2025), the study evaluates governance quality using dimensions such as transparency, accountability, inclusiveness, and fairness. Findings indicate that participatory approaches have contributed to reduced illegal activities and increased local revenues, but these gains are often constrained by weak legal frameworks, limited institutional autonomy, and inconsistent enforcement. The paper concludes by proposing an integrated governance framework based on polycentric and adaptive principles, emphasizing two focused recommendations: (i) harmonizing sectoral laws to secure community tenure and clarify mandates, and (ii) investing in the autonomy and capability of local institutions to ensure equitable and sustainable resource governance.