Community awareness of baobab (Adansonia digitata) ecosystem services, conservation practices, and perceived threats in Dodoma, Tanzania

Baobab (Adansonia digitata) is a keystone dryland tree species, providing various ecosystem services that support rural livelihoods. Despite the importance, there is limited knowledge of community management practices and the threats they face in semi-arid Tanzania. This study assessed community awareness of baobab ecosystem services, conservation practices, and perceived threats in the Dodoma region. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from March to May 2025 across three districts, covering 515 households selected randomly. Data were analysed using chi-square tests, negative binomial regression, and binary logistic regression. Results indicate high awareness of land-related services provided by baobab, such as soil fertility improvement and erosion control, reflecting the respondents’ engagement in farming. District was the main determinant of awareness of various ecosystem services provided by baobab. Respondents with informal education (OR = 2.34) and younger respondents (OR = 0.97) showed a higher likelihood of being aware of the pollination services provided by baobab. Further, age showed a negative association with the awareness of water retention services (OR = 0.96). Household land size emerged as the strongest factor driving baobab abundance. Climate change (53%) and agricultural land clearance (36%) were perceived as main threats, while traditional beliefs contributed to informal protection. Challenges to active conservation of baobab included slow maturation and large land requirements, limiting willingness to plant baobab. This study emphasises the need to integrate local knowledge and cultural practices into conservation strategies and land-use planning. Promoting grafting can accelerate fruit set, which serves as an important source of livelihood for the community.