By Alfred Zacharia
The National Environment Management Council (NEMC) has urged Tanzanians to take greater responsibility in protecting water sources, warning that continued environmental degradation threatens the sustainability of one of the country’s most vital resources.
Speaking to journalists, NEMC’s Environmental and Water Infrastructure Engineer, Mr. Boniface Kyaruzi, said water sources across the country are under increasing pressure due to human activities that disrupt natural ecosystems.
He cited several threats, including deforestation, farming within 60 metres of water bodies, the use of chemical fertilisers, industrial pollution, and the indiscriminate dumping of household waste.
“These practices are contributing to the destruction of our water sources,” he said.
He added “It is the duty of every citizen to take part in conserving these ecosystems, not only for human use but also for the wellbeing of all living organisms.”
Mr. Kyaruzi noted that it is possible to rehabilitate lost or degraded water sources through the restoration of native vegetation, better waste management practices, and stricter control of activities near rivers, lakes, and springs.
“We need to stop cultivating within the restricted zones around water bodies, manage domestic waste more effectively, and ensure that industrial effluents are properly treated before discharge,” he explained.
He emphasised that water is central to daily life and economic growth, cautioning that without it, essential services and industries cannot function.
“Water is life. Without it, we can’t cook, drink, clean, or operate factories. Even environmental conservation itself depends on water availability,” Mr. Kyaruzi stressed.
He called for a shift in public mindset towards waste management and environmental stewardship to ensure the long-term sustainability of water resources.
NEMC's remarks come at a time when Tanzania, like many countries, is grappling with the impacts of climate change, rapid urbanisation, and unsustainable land use practices, all of which put increasing pressure on freshwater resources.
The council is advocating for stronger enforcement of environmental laws and broader community engagement in the protection of natural ecosystems.