Villagers in Tanzania are seeking accountability from the World Bank, alleging the institution has failed to adequately address harm stemming from a now-cancelled $100 million environmental project. The formal grievance, filed last month with the World Bank’s Grievance Redress Service, centers on claims of lost livelihoods and alleged human rights abuses linked to the Resilient Natural Resources Management for Tourism and Growth (REGROW) project. The case highlights ongoing concerns about the social impact of large-scale conservation efforts and the responsibility of international financial institutions to protect vulnerable communities.
The REGROW project, intended to expand protected areas and boost tourism in Tanzania, was terminated in November 2024 following reports of serious misconduct. Allegations included forced evictions, sexual assault, extrajudicial killings, and other abuses perpetrated by Tanzanian wildlife rangers while implementing the project, as detailed in an investigation by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ). The ICIJ’s reporting brought the allegations to international attention, prompting the World Bank to halt funding.
A subsequent internal investigation by the World Bank itself acknowledged “critical failures” in the planning and supervision of the project, stating these failures “have resulted in serious harm.” The September 2024 investigation report detailed shortcomings in due diligence and oversight, contributing to the alleged abuses.
Action Plan Falls Short, Advocates Say
In April 2025, the World Bank released an Action Plan intended to provide relief to communities affected by REGROW. The plan outlined commitments to halt forced resettlement, ensure continued access to farming and pastoral lands, and provide livelihood support. However, the Oakland Institute, a California-based reckon tank advocating for land and resource rights, argues that the plan has not delivered on its promises. The Institute filed the grievance on behalf of affected community members, who remain anonymous due to fears of reprisal.
According to a statement released by the Oakland Institute, Tanzanian park rangers have allegedly killed two more local residents since the Action Plan was implemented, and continue to “terrorise communities” through ongoing restrictions on traditional livelihoods. The Institute contends that the World Bank’s efforts to provide redress have been inadequate, a claim supported by findings from United Nations special rapporteurs and working groups. The organization asserts that the bank has a particular responsibility to act, given its position as Tanzania’s largest donor.
“As Tanzania’s largest donor, [the World Bank] has the means and the leverage to conclude this harm and repair the devastation of lives it is responsible for,” said Anuradha Mittal, executive director of the Oakland Institute, in the statement.
Evictions Continue Despite Bank’s Pledges
Adding to the concerns, the Oakland Institute alleges that the Tanzanian government, under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, has announced plans to evict residents from five villages. This action, the Institute claims, directly contradicts the World Bank’s assurances regarding forced resettlement. The planned relocations are expected to displace “tens of thousands of people,” raising serious humanitarian concerns.
President Hassan’s administration has faced scrutiny regarding human rights issues since she assumed office. Her election in 2021 was reportedly marred by widespread rights violations, according to various international observers. Human Rights Watch has documented concerns regarding restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly in Tanzania.
The REGROW Project: A Timeline of Events
- 2017: The World Bank approves the $100 million REGROW project.
- 2017-2024: Project implementation begins, with reports of alleged abuses emerging.
- November 2024: The World Bank cancels the REGROW project following allegations of widespread human rights violations.
- September 2024: The World Bank’s internal investigation confirms “critical failures” in project oversight.
- April 2025: The World Bank releases an Action Plan to address harm caused by the project.
- May 2025: The Oakland Institute files a formal grievance with the World Bank, alleging the Action Plan is insufficient.
What’s Next for Affected Communities?
The World Bank’s Grievance Redress Service is now tasked with reviewing the complaint filed by the Oakland Institute. The service is intended to provide a mechanism for addressing concerns raised by individuals and communities affected by World Bank-funded projects. The outcome of this review could lead to further investigation, mediation, or recommendations for additional remedial actions.
The situation underscores the complex challenges of balancing conservation goals with the rights and livelihoods of local communities. Experts in sustainable development emphasize the importance of free, prior, and informed consent from affected populations in all development projects. The case also raises broader questions about the due diligence processes of international financial institutions and their responsibility to prevent and address human rights abuses in the projects they fund.
The World Bank has not yet publicly responded to the Oakland Institute’s latest claims. Updates on the grievance process and the World Bank’s response can be found on the Inspection Panel website, which is independent of the World Bank management.
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