The event will be in two sessions, participants will start by early birdwatching (7.00-8.30am) and afterwards, a workshop at the University of Dar es Salaam. Birdwatching will be led by experienced birders from the University of Dar es Salaam Birdwatching Group, Ministry of Natural resources and Tourism, Wildlife Division, and Bird Environment Community (BECO), an NGO. Birdwatching will be conducted at the University of Dar es Salaam Sewage Treatment ponds and the University thickets which host migratory birds including many orioles, bee-eaters, waders and Madagascar Pond Heron. This site is among the few semi-natural habitats located within the Dar es Salaam City. Dar es Salaam coast is an Important Bird Area and is threatened by the ongoing rapid urbanization.
The workshop will be attended by secondary school pupils, University Students and the general public. The following talks are planned for the half a day event (9.00 am – 12.30 pm): (i) Threats to Migratory Waterbirds in Tanzania, (ii) Illegal Bird Trade in Tanzania to be given by Dr. Jasson John of University of Dar es Salaam, and (iii) Government Initiatives to Conserve Migratory Birds in Tanzania to be given by the Director of Wildlife or AEWA Focal Person from Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism.
The two activities will be covered by media including TV, Newspaper and social media such as facebook and blogs. The major aim for the event is to raise awareness on the conservation of migratory birds and their habitats to the public and decision markers. We are expecting to have about 150 participants from primary schools, secondary schools, Tourism College, University and the public including officials from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, in particular the Wildlife Division which is the AEWA implementing agency.