The Status of Prunus Africana in Tanzania

Prunus Africana, (syn. Pygeum Africana) is an indigenous tree species with natural occurrence in the upland rainforests from West to South Africa and moist Brachystegia woodlands. In most cases in Tanzania, it occurs in tropical mountain forests receiving high rainfall, at altitudes of 1500-2300 m.a.s. It is found growing naturally in Kilimanjaro, Pare, East & West Usambaras, Nguru, and the Uluguru Mountains. The trees also found in Mufindi and Mahenge escarpments. The species has also been recorded in the Udzungwa Mountains, Southern Highlands, Geita, Bukoba and Kondoa. Findings show that Prunus Africana is found in some Afromontane forests in Tanzania but it has not been possible to find in some other forest. In Tanzania, Prunus Africana ranges from the Eastern Mountains forests and along the rift valley. Research also shows that these Afromontane forests where Prunus Africana is found are at high risks of disappearing because of the main threats including illegal logging, fire and agricultural encroachment. Other threats to these forests include the collection of firewood, charcoal production, hunting, and gathering plants for medicine.