The uses and management of an endemic and endangered species of Aloe pembana in Pemba Island of Zanzibar

Background: The Endemic and endangered species of Aloe pembana have been noticed to be growing in Pemba only. Like other Aloes, A. pembana is a traditional medicine which plays a major part for curing different human diseases in Pemba. Currently IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) recognized that Aloe pembana is an endemic and endangered species found only in Pemba and listed in Red List in the category of critical endangered species. Aim: This study is intended to illustrate management practices and the values of A pembana as a human traditional medicine in Pemba. Methods: The study was conducted at Kibokoni Village in Chake Chake District. Muambe Shamiani and Kiuyu Mbuyuni located in Mkoani and Micheweni Districts. The sampling is size based on the mathematical relationships for calculation of sample size of given area. Observations: The findings shows that the plant is used for curing and prevention of different human and animal diseases.  Seventeen diseases were listed as being cured by the plant, include Malaria, Diabetes, Menstruation problem, Hernia, Blood pressure etc. Also, A. pembana is under severe threat of extinction, and no management practices set by the community and the government to rescue the plants. Observation shows that burning and land clearing for agriculture and human habitat together with coastal erosion are the major threats. Conclusion: participatory approaches with government, village communities, non-governmental organization and International Institutions should work collaboratively as one team on the conservation; furthermore, intensive analytical research studies and tradition knowledge are required to find out more about the medicinal value of the plant.