The National Environment Management Council (NEMC) joined fellow Tanzanians and the world to celebrate ‘Global Recycling Day’ on March 18, 2026, urging citizens and businesses to treat waste as a resource and seize opportunities in recycling.
Dr. Immaculate Sware Semesi, Director General of the National Environment Management Council (NEMC), said in a public statement that said the nation faces mounting waste challenges, particularly in fast-growing cities like Dar es Salaam.
“What we often regard as ‘taka’ (waste) is, in fact, a valuable resource, the seventh resource recognized globally,” she said, calling for a shift in mindset from disposal to recovery and reuse.
According to her, rapid urbanization and rising consumption have overwhelmed municipal systems, but authorities see potential to turn the challenge into economic gain. NEMC promotes stricter enforcement of environmental regulations, investment in recycling infrastructure, and innovation in circular economy solutions.
Dr. Semesi praised waste collectors, informal recyclers, and small-scale operators, noting their critical role in recovering materials and reducing environmental pollution.
She called on local governments to strengthen waste segregation and recycling systems, urged companies to adopt sustainable production and packaging, and encouraged households to separate and reuse waste daily. She also challenged youth and innovators to explore green entrepreneurship and recycling technologies.
“Tuchukulie taka kama rasilimali, tenganisha, tumia tena, na rejeleza,” she said, emphasizing that sustainable waste management drives both environmental protection and economic growth.
She highlights that recycling can create jobs, ease landfill pressures, and position Tanzania as a leader in East Africa’s circular economy. With global focus on sustainability intensifying, the country’s approach may serve as a model for other rapidly urbanizing nations.
As Tanzania marks Global Recycling Day, authorities stress that converting waste into resources is no longer optional—it directly contributes to cleaner cities, healthier communities, and a resilient green economy.
