By Alfred Zacharia
On May 26, 2025, the National Environment Management Council (NEMC) urged Tanzanians to take collective action in protecting the environment, as the country prepares to mark World Environment Day on June 5.
Speaking to journalists, NEMC Director General Immaculate Sware Semesi emphasized the importance of using the day to raise awareness and encourage sustainable practices that can restore land and reduce the spread of desertification and drought.
This year’s theme, “Land Restoration, Desertification and Drought Resilience,” speaks directly to environmental challenges facing Tanzania.
These include poor land-use practices, deforestation, and worsening drought conditions that continue to disrupt agriculture, water access, and rural livelihoods.
According to Semesi, World Environment Day is not just a celebration, it is a national call to responsibility.
She noted that Tanzania’s participation reinforces its commitment to international environmental frameworks such as the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Semesi explained that this year’s national slogan, “Our Environment and the Tanzania We Want: Act Now, Stop Plastic Pollution,” is timely.
“Plastic pollution is one of the biggest threats to our environment. If we delay action, the cost will be unbearable, both environmentally and economically,” she said.
Plastic waste remains a pressing issue, as much of it is non-biodegradable and continues to clog drainage systems, pollute water sources, and harm marine and coastal ecosystems.
Despite the national ban on plastic bags introduced in 2019, NEMC says the problem persists due to illegal production and importation.
“Our country is surrounded by nations that have not banned plastic bags, so we must remain vigilant through joint operations between the police and NEMC,” Semesi noted.
According to Mr. Jamal Baruti, Director of Compliance and Enforcement at NEMC, more than 250,000 tonnes of plastic waste have been intercepted since the ban began.
He said the Council continues to inspect industries suspected of violating the law.
“More than 15 factories have been inspected this year alone. Those found guilty faced legal action,” Baruti said, adding, “We are still working to change mindsets and stop the production and use of plastic bags.”
The plastic bag regulation enacted in 2022 imposes strict penalties.
Manufacturers who defy the law face fines ranging from 20 million to 1 billion Tanzanian shillings or imprisonment for up to two years.
Transporters face fines of 5 to 20 million shillings, while sellers can be fined up to 500,000 shillings or jailed for three months.
For individual users, fines range from 30,000 to 200,000 shillings or a seven-day jail sentence.
Despite these efforts, NEMC acknowledges that plastic waste remains a widespread issue. Still, the ban has opened new economic opportunities.
“We have seen the rise of alternative packaging industries using paper, fabric, and natural fibers,” said Semesi.
According to her, over 30 recycling industries are currently operating in the country, creating jobs for youth and women.
She added that turning waste into business is key to long-term environmental sustainability. “We are trying to educate people that waste can also be a source of income. Innovation in recycling and alternative products is growing.”
Baruti also highlighted the need for cross-sectoral collaboration. “We are not alone in this fight. Institutions like TRA, TBS, Immigration, TPA, TAA, TMDA, and local governments all have roles to play in enforcing the law,” he said.
Semesi stressed that NEMC is more than a regulator.
“We are also an institution for public education and community engagement,” she said. “We want to promote clean and green technologies, encourage tree planting, protect water systems, and invest in nature-based solutions.”
World Environment Day will also celebrate individuals, communities, and institutions making significant contributions to environmental protection through special awards.
“This is a moment to recognize leadership and innovation in environmental conservation,” Semesi noted.
As climate threats rise and plastic waste continues to spread, NEMC’s message is clear: the time to act is now. “Our environment is our life. What we do today will determine the Tanzania we leave behind,” said Semesi.
