Environmental conservation is a responsibility that rests with every Tanzanian, Deputy Minister for Environment Reuben Kwagilwa has said, calling for stronger collaboration among government institutions, businesses and citizens to safeguard the country's natural resources and support sustainable development.
Speaking during a tour of exhibition stands at the 2026 World Environment Week celebrations at the Jakaya Kikwete Convention Centre (JKCC) in Dodoma, Mr Kwagilwa said protecting the environment was essential for securing Tanzania’s future and achieving the ambitions outlined in the country's long-term development agenda.
The deputy minister visited a number of pavilions showcasing technologies, services and innovations aimed at promoting environmental conservation, sustainable resource use and climate resilience.
He praised participating institutions and stakeholders for using the event to educate the public on environmental stewardship and the adoption of eco-friendly technologies.
“Environmental conservation is not the responsibility of government alone. Every Tanzanian has a role to play in ensuring that our environment is protected for present and future generations,” he said.
Mr Kwagilwa stressed that effective environmental management requires coordinated efforts among the public sector, private enterprises and local communities.
Such partnerships, he noted, are critical to addressing environmental challenges and advancing the country's sustainable development goals.
At the Ministry of Energy pavilion, where the Tanzania Electric Supply Company (Tanesco), the Rural Energy Agency (REA) and the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) are participating, the deputy minister was briefed on initiatives aimed at reducing environmental pollution through cleaner energy solutions.
Officials highlighted ongoing efforts to promote clean cooking energy and the use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in vehicles as part of the government's strategy to cut emissions and accelerate the transition to sustainable energy sources.
The deputy minister also reviewed a range of technologies and services being deployed by the energy sector to support environmental protection and Tanzania’s broader green growth agenda.
His visit comes as the country intensifies efforts to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability amid growing concerns over climate change and the depletion of natural resources.
Mr Kwagilwa urged citizens to embrace this year's Environment Week theme, “Vision 2050: Taking Responsibility for a Greener Tanzania,” saying individual actions could collectively make a significant difference in protecting the environment.
The exhibitions, which opened on June 1, will run until June 5 to coincide with World Environment Day.
Organisers expect thousands of visitors to attend the event, where they will have an opportunity to learn about environmental conservation, clean energy technologies and other sustainable solutions being promoted across the country.
