The National Environment Management Council (NEMC) and the Zanzibar Environmental Management Authority (ZEMA) have agreed to deepen their collaboration to strengthen environmental protection and sustainable resource management across the country.
The commitment was made today when NEMC hosted ZEMA’s management team in Dar es Salaam for a joint capacity-building meeting aimed at improving coordination, policy implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws.
NEMC Director General, Dr. Immaculate Sware Semesi, said the two institutions are determined to enhance cooperation and share expertise to address emerging environmental challenges.
“This engagement focuses on refining our joint strategies, improving our operational efficiency, and ensuring that environmental management efforts deliver real impact for the people,” she said.
Dr. Semesi noted that protecting Tanzania’s natural resources requires a unified approach, where institutions work hand in hand to promote clean, safe, and sustainable environments that support economic and social development.
ZEMA Director General, Mr. Sheha Mjaja Juma, called on citizens and development partners to take greater responsibility for protecting the environment.
“Every individual and institution has a duty to comply with environmental laws,” he stressed. “When development projects are planned and implemented sustainably, we can reduce the risks of climate change and protect our livelihoods.”
The collaboration between NEMC and ZEMA is not new. Over the years, the two agencies have regularly exchanged experiences, conducted joint inspections, and developed best practices to improve environmental management in both mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.
Their renewed partnership underscores a shared vision: to preserve the country’s natural heritage for the benefit of current and future generations while promoting development that respects the environment and improves citizens’ quality of life.