DC Masanja gives seven days for executives to submit names of pastoralists refusing to go to designated grazing areas

The Tunduru District Commissioner, Hon. Denis Masanja, has given village and ward executives seven days to submit names of pastoralists who refuse to move their livestock to designated grazing areas, according to the source.

These directives were issued on September 1, 2026, during a visit to Mnemasi Village, Mchoteka Ward, and Mbati Village, Mbati Ward, where the District Commissioner emphasized the implementation of the Land Use Plan to control indiscriminate grazing and prevent conflicts between farmers and pastoralists.

DC Masanja urged district, division, ward, and village leaders to cooperate in overseeing this plan, stating that livestock should be moved to designated grazing areas in Namasakata, Nakapanya, Nampungu, and Matemanga Divisions. The source notes that Nalasi, Lukumbule, and Mlingoti Divisions do not have designated grazing areas.

Citizens are urged to report any livestock entering undesignated areas, with emphasis that they should not take the law into their own hands. Village governments, auxiliary forces, and VGS are also called upon to collaborate with the Police Force and relevant departments to control livestock invading farms and destroying crops, adhering to the law.

DC Masanja also emphasized the continuation of Village Reconciliation Committees, which bring together farmers and pastoralists, and the legal action against pastoralists who violate regulations, including court appearances.

Furthermore, the District Commissioner warned leaders and citizens who welcome pastoralists into undesignated areas or inform them about police arrivals to cease such behavior immediately, stating that strict legal action will be taken against those found guilty, according to the source.

This information is relevant to TCDI's focus on community development as it addresses land use, conflict resolution, and public safety within Tunduru District. Understanding local government directives on these matters can inform community awareness and engagement initiatives. This is TCDI context, not a statement by the source, and does not mean TCDI took part in what is reported.