Both wildlife and communities are benefiting from a joint venture aimed at making better use of Tanzania's wetlands.

The project, which was first proposed in 2000, is said to be enjoying huge success with a number of locations being outlined as being of particular importance.

Named the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, the scheme lists wetlands which are vital either because of the animals which rely on them or the villages which use the water supply.

One such site is the Kilombero Valley supports a large number of mammals, including elephant, buffalo and hippo as well as three quarters of the world's population of the puku antelope.

John Makotta, the co-ordinator for the Kilombero Valley Ramsar Site Project in Ulanga District, said that the area is "fed by many rivers and experiences huge variations in its water dynamics, animal and plant species and has rich variety of wetland types".

He added: "We are establishing means to ensure there is wise use of initiatives to help sustainable livelihood while protecting wetland and their ecologies."

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