HIV/AIDS, Gender and Population Dimensions of Tanzania Coastal Conservation

A threats assessment of the linkages between AIDS, gender, population and coastal biodiversity

In 2005, the PEACE project partners conducted an assessment of the linkages and threats associated with HIV/AIDS, coastal biodiversity, gender, and migration. The assessment team used different methods (including focus groups, interviews, and other PRA methodologies) over a six-month period – January to June 2005. The assessment determined that the HIV/AIDS pandemic negatively impacts the use and management of natural resources by accelerating the rate of natural resource extraction, weakening human and institutional capacity through the loss of life and traditional knowledge and skills. Although in many places there is still sensitivity, social stigma, and possibly denial of HIV/AIDS in the natural resources sector, there is strong evidence that HIV/AIDS has contributed to illness and deaths among park rangers, senior officials, community game guards and other conservation personnel.