The National Environment Management Council (NEMC), in partnership with environmental stakeholders including DEPO, on Saturday marked World Cleanup Day by leading a large-scale sanitation exercise at Mwananyamala Referral Hospital in Dar es Salaam.
The initiative, which was also replicated across the country through NEMC’s 13 zonal offices, brought together council staff, DEPO representatives and community members in a joint effort to clean hospital grounds, collect solid waste, sweep compounds and unclog drainage systems.
NEMC’s Eastern Northern Zone Manager, Ms. Glory Kombe, said the event was designed not only to celebrate the global campaign but also to instill a sense of responsibility among Tanzanians in maintaining clean and safe surroundings.
“This day is not just for celebration but also for reflection and action. Clean environments are the foundation of good health,” Ms. Kombe said.
“Most of the waste we collected today plastics, bottles and food leftovers originates from households. Waste management must start at the family level. We all share the responsibility to protect our environment for the well-being of both present and future generations.”
DEPO Director, Mr. Humphrey Milinga, underscored the importance of aligning environmental protection with public health.
“Cleaning hospitals is crucial because these are places where health services are delivered,” he said.
“Maintaining a clean and safe environment in such facilities helps prevent the spread of diseases and promotes community well-being.”he added
Beyond Mwananyamala, cleanup activities were conducted nationwide, reinforcing NEMC’s nationwide campaign to mobilise public participation in environmental management.
World Cleanup Day, observed every September 20, is a global movement aimed at combating the mismanagement of waste and raising awareness of the impacts of pollution.
Millions of volunteers worldwide join hands each year to clean streets, rivers, forests and public spaces.
NEMC reaffirmed its commitment to continue working with communities, government institutions and development partners to ensure Tanzania remains on course toward achieving cleaner and healthier environments.