Product Chain Analysis of Mostly Over Exploited Timber Tree Species

This research was conducted to analyse the product chain of the mostly overexploited timber tree species from Ruvu North Forest Reserve in Pwani Region. Different methods of data collection were used including resource assessment; interviews and chain indicator value matrix. Responses from the interview were coded and analysed with the aid of the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) computer programme. Data analysis entailed a descriptive statistics. A total of 43 mostly over exploited timber tree species identified in the RNFR used for timber, poles and charcoal production. Albizia petersiana, Dalbergia melanoxylon, Dichrostacys cinerea, Diopyros consulatae, Baphia kirkii, Hymenocardia ulmoides were the main tree species identified. Fabaceae family dominates the mostly overexploited timber tree species followed by Combretaceae, Euphorbiaceae and Meliaceae. Illegal harvesting, trading, poor management, and transportation were the main factors contributing to overexploitation of the timber tree species from the RNFR. Managers, traders, transporters and end users were the main actors identified and assessed.