Biomass, Carbon Stock and Sequestration Potential of Kahe Forest Reserve, Northern Tanzania

Abstract

This paper explores the significant yet underreported contribution of Kahe Forest Reserve (KFR) in Northern Tanzania to climate change adaptation and mitigation, focusing on biomass stock, carbon stock, carbon dioxide sequestration, and untapped carbon trade profit. Utilizing NAFORMA methodology and geospatial analysis, the study reveals that KFR holds approximately 48,300 tonnes of biomass, 22,710 tonnes of carbon stock, and sequesters an estimated 83,300 tonnes of carbon dioxide. This translates to an untapped carbon trade profit of approximately US$ 333,200. The findings underscore KFR's crucial role in carbon sequestration and its importance in climate change mitigation efforts. The forested areas within KFR dominate its carbon sequestration capacity, highlighting the necessity of preserving the reserve. Despite this, the increasing human population up by 141.4% from 1967 (538,107 people) to 2022 (1,298,838 people) in adjacent districts poses significant pressure on the reserve. Illegal agricultural activities within KFR further threaten its integrity, leading to habitat degradation and biodiversity loss. To address these challenges, the study recommends that the government and other stakeholders strengthen policy enforcement, enhance community engagement and education, promote sustainable agricultural practices outside the reserve, implement restoration initiatives, and integrate KFR into carbon markets.