Amani Nature Reserve
The Amani Forest Reserve, officially listed as Amani Nature Forest Reserve (Msitu wa Akiba wa Amani, In Swahili) is a protected area located the Muheza and Korogwe Districts in the Tanga Region of Tanzania. The nature reserve was established in 1997 in order to preserve the unique flora and fauna of the East Usambara Mountains. The East and West Usambara Mountains are a biodiversity hotspot. The Amani Nature Reserve includes tropical cloud forest habitats.
| Amani Forest Reserve | |
|---|---|
IUCN category IV (habitat/species management area) | |
Amani Forest Reserve | |
Location of Amani Forest Reserve in Tanzania | |
| Location | Korogwe and Muheza of Tanga Region, Tanzania |
| Nearest city | Muheza |
| Coordinates | 5°05′S 38°40′E |
| Area | 83.04 km2 (32.06 sq mi) |
| Designation | Nature Forest Reserve |
| Established | 1997 |
| Named for | Amani means Peace in Swahili |
| Governing body | Tanzania Forest Service Agency (TFS) under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism |
| Website | Official Page |
Amani is home to African violet (Saintpaulia), which are thought to have a spiritual component (power of forgiveness) to the native Shambaa people, has enormous ecological value in the Amani ecosystem. The region is listed as one of the top 12 bird-watching locations in the world by Bird Life International, and the Reserve is a recognized Man and Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.