Reaching Our Roots: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Promoting Sustainability of the African Blackwood Tree

Prized by instrument makers for its tone and resiliency since the early nineteenth century, the African Blackwood tree (Dalbergia melanoxylon), also known as granadilla or mpingo (Swahili), faces an uncertain future. Often overharvested and inefficiently used, African Blackwood has been on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s “near threatened” red list since 1998 and is categorized by CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) in Appendix II, which restricts and controls trade. As instrument manufacturers, makers, and musicians continue to purchase the wood, there is little recognition of the sustainability issues around the tree. Furthermore, many communities that harvest the wood are unaware of the musical nature of the product. The purpose of this presentation is to introduce an interdisciplinary approach to conservation of and education about African Blackwood. Since 2010, Daraja Music Initiative (DMI), a 501(c)3 nonprofit and a Tanzanian NGO, has provided music and conservation education in the Kilimanjaro Region of Tanzania, where mpingo is the national tree. By bridging seemingly divergent disciplines, DMI has raised awareness of sustainability issues both in Tanzania and internationally through the global clarinet community. This presentation will give a brief historical overview of African Blackwood trade, highlight the major conservation issues, and provide information about developing partnerships for increased sustainability in a community setting.