USAID Promoting Tanzania’s Environment, Conservation and Tourism (PROTECT) Annual Report FY18

The activity aims to promote Tanzania's environment, conservation, and tourism sectors through a range of interventions. The PROTECT activity is funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and is implemented by RTI International. The activity focuses on three key intermediate results: policy, research, and advocacy; institutional strengthening; and strengthened private sector investment in the wildlife sector. To achieve these results, PROTECT works with a range of stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, and private sector companies. One of the key areas of focus for PROTECT is policy and research. The activity has supported the development of several key policies and guidelines, including the National Tourism Policy and the National Strategy and Action Plan for Management of Invasive Species. PROTECT has also conducted research on a range of topics, including human-wildlife conflict and the impact of tourism on local communities. In addition to policy and research, PROTECT has also focused on institutional strengthening. The activity has worked with government agencies, including the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism and the Tanzania National Parks, to improve their capacity to manage and conserve Tanzania's natural resources. PROTECT has also supported the development of community-based conservation initiatives, including the establishment of community wildlife management areas. The PROTECT activity has also sought to strengthen private sector investment in the wildlife sector. The activity has worked with private sector companies, including tour operators and conservation organizations, to promote sustainable tourism practices and support conservation efforts. PROTECT has also supported the development of public-private partnerships, including the establishment of a global development alliance to support conservation efforts in Tanzania. Throughout the activity, PROTECT has also focused on integration and collaboration with other USAID programs and activities. The activity has worked closely with other USAID programs, including the East Africa Biodiversity and Ecosystems (EABE) program, to promote regional cooperation and coordination on conservation and tourism issues. In terms of stakeholder participation and involvement, PROTECT has worked closely with a range of stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, and private sector companies. The activity has also engaged with local communities, including through the establishment of community-based conservation initiatives and the provision of training and capacity-building programs. The PROTECT activity has also made significant progress in terms of management and administrative issues. The activity has maintained a strong financial management system, with all financial transactions and reporting in compliance with USAID regulations. The activity has also maintained a strong human resources management system, with all staff members trained and equipped to perform their duties effectively. In terms of monitoring, evaluation, and learning, PROTECT has implemented a robust monitoring and evaluation system, with regular reporting and review of progress against activity targets. The activity has also conducted several evaluations, including a midterm evaluation and a whole of project evaluation, to assess progress and identify areas for improvement. Overall, the PROTECT activity has made significant progress in promoting Tanzania's environment, conservation, and tourism sectors. The activity has supported the development of key policies and guidelines, strengthened institutional capacity, and promoted private sector investment in the wildlife sector. Through its focus on integration and collaboration, stakeholder participation and involvement, and management and administrative issues, PROTECT has helped to promote sustainable development and conservation in Tanzania.