By Alfred Zacharia
The National Environment Management Council (NEMC) has awarded the Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TanTrade) for its strong commitment to environmental protection during this year’s Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (DITF), commonly known as Sabasaba.
The award, presented on July 13, recognised TanTrade’s efforts in promoting clean energy, proper waste management, and the use of eco-friendly technologies at the fairgrounds.
Speaking during the closingceremony of 49th DTIF, NEMC Director General Dr. Immaculate Semesi said TanTrade had shown leadership by integrating environmental awareness into the organisation of the annual event.
“TanTrade took serious steps to make the Sabasaba fair more environmentally friendly. This is a good example of how large events can be planned and managed with sustainability in mind,” said Dr Sware.
One of the key initiatives was the introduction of a special Environment and Clean Energy Day on July 6.
The goal was to raise awareness among exhibitors and visitors on the importance of using clean energy and protecting the environment.
TanTrade also worked on improving waste management at the fair by providing proper waste bins, especially for plastic.
The system made it easier to collect and separate waste, helping to keep the area clean and reduce pollution.
Another important effort was supporting the use of clean transport options, including electric-powered bajajis and vehicles that use natural gas.
The alternatives helped to lower air pollution at the busy exhibition grounds.
Dr Semesi said these efforts showed how trade and environmental protection can go hand in hand.
“What TanTrade did this year is not just good for the environment, it also improves the image of the country. It shows that Tanzania can lead in organising green events,” she added.
TanTrade also encouraged the use of technologies and products with low environmental impact, such as items produced with clean energy and minimal waste.
NEMC has called on other organisations to follow TanTrade’s example by embracing environmentally responsible practices in future public events.
The Sabasaba fair attracts thousands of local and international participants every year.
According to NEMC, this year’s edition showed that promoting green growth is possible even in large-scale gatherings, if sustainability is made a priority from the start.