Abstract: Colonialism introduced new plants and sometimes modified existing species to meet the needs of colonial territories in Africa and around the world. This article examines the dynamics of the introduction and promotion of cinchona in Tanganyika. It is argued that cinchona was needed to eradicate tropical malaria, maintain plantation labor, and facilitate the settlement of colonial administrators. Furthermore, its production was significantly increased during both world wars to meet the medical needs of frontline soldiers and service personnel. This implies that cinchona was primarily required for colonial missions in Tanganyika, as its production and processing declined after the Second World War. This article takes a historical approach to position the introduction of cinchona as part of an environmental imperative to support colonialism.