By Alfred Zacharia
In a vibrant celebration of World Turtle Day, the National Environmental Management Council (NEMC) and the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA) came together today (May 23, 2025) to shine a spotlight on the urgent need to protect turtles and the fragile ecosystems they depend on.
The two institutions led a colorful educational event at Tabora Zoo, home to over 200 turtles and other wildlife species.
Students from Kaze Hill Secondary School and community members from nearby neighborhoods were invited to take part in the activities, which included tours, conservation talks, and interactive learning about the life and role of turtles in the ecosystem.
World Turtle Day, marked globally on May 23, was anything but ordinary in Tabora this year. With enthusiastic schoolchildren exploring enclosures and environmental experts speaking passionately about sustainability, the zoo transformed into a living classroom.
The energy was high, but the message was serious: protecting turtles means protecting the environment and our future.
“This is more than a celebration. It’s a call to action. Our turtles are in danger, not because of predators, but because of us—our actions, our pollution, and our negligence,” said Mr. Novatus Mushi, NEMC’s Acting Manager for the Central Zone.
He pointed to alarming trends. Activities like forest burning, uncontrolled land use, and plastic waste pollution are disrupting the delicate balance of ecosystems that turtles rely on.
“We must understand that when we destroy habitats, we are pushing these gentle creatures closer to extinction,” he stressed.
Taking the conversation further, Mr. Abubakari Shaban, the dedicated manager of Tabora Zoo, reminded attendees that turtles are protected wildlife under Tanzanian law. Owning or capturing them without authorization is a crime.
“If you see a turtle in an unsafe place, don’t take it home report it to TAWA,” he urged. “We’ll make sure it gets to a safe environment where it can thrive.”
Mr. Shaban also emphasized the role of wildlife in tourism and national pride. “Our turtles are not just animals; they are ambassadors of conservation. They attract tourists, create jobs, and help us tell our story as a country that values nature,” he said.
The event wasn’t just about listening it was about engagement. Students asked questions, touched turtle shells, and learned how long turtles can live (some over 100 years!) and why they’re so important to the environment. Many left inspired, promising to be “ambassadors for nature” in their communities.
For NEMC and TAWA, today’s activities were part of a broader mission: to build a culture of conservation among Tanzanians, especially the youth. As the planet faces growing environmental threats, such moments of education and awareness are crucial.
“Let’s make every day Turtle Day,” Mr. Mushi said in closing. “Let’s plant trees, reduce plastic use, and report any illegal wildlife trade. The future of turtles and our environment—depends on what we do today.”
World Turtle Day, founded by American Tortoise Rescue in 2000, is now celebrated in dozens of countries. It serves as a reminder that slow and steady wins the race, especially when it comes to saving species on the brink.
With its spirited commemoration in Tabora, Tanzania has once again shown that it is committed to protecting its wildlife and educating its citizens—because conservation begins with awareness, and action starts with knowledge.
