As the world prepares to mark World Environment Day on June 5, the Minister of State in the Vice President's Office (Union and Environment), Eng. Hamad Yussuf Masauni, has called upon young people to take full advantage of opportunities provided by the government by embracing innovation, working diligently, utilizing modern technology and actively participating in environmentally friendly economic activities to contribute to sustainable national development.
World Environment Day is observed annually on June 5 and has been celebrated since 1973 following a resolution adopted by the United Nations after the 1972 Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment in Sweden.
The global event was established to raise awareness about environmental protection and encourage collective action in addressing environmental challenges facing humanity.
Speaking on June 2, 2026, during a Youth Forum held in Dar es Salaam as part of activities leading up to the national commemoration of World Environment Day in Dodoma on June 5, the Eng:Masauni described the forum as an important platform that connects young people with environmental issues by providing opportunities for dialogue, learning from experts, sharing experiences and developing innovative solutions that can be implemented within their communities.
He emphasized that young people should be at the forefront of efforts to protect the environment and combat the effects of climate change, noting that they represent the largest segment of the nation's workforce and possess immense potential to drive positive change through innovation and technology.
"You are the workforce of the nation and a crucial pillar in the fight against environmental degradation. According to the 2022 Population and Housing Census, young people account for more than 64 percent of the country's workforce. This means your contribution is essential in protecting the environment, promoting the green economy and ensuring sustainable development for our nation," said Eng. Masauni.
He added that the government continues to create an enabling environment for youth participation in various development sectors, including environmental conservation, waste management, clean energy adoption, green entrepreneurship and technological innovations aimed at mitigating the impacts of climate change.
Speaking at the same event, the Permanent Secretary in the Vice President's Office, Dr. Richard Muyungi, said the ministry is eager to see meaningful and sustained youth participation in addressing climate change challenges, which continue to affect economies, ecosystems and communities around the world.
Dr. Muyungi noted that young people have a unique role to play in developing sustainable solutions through innovation, technology and active engagement in environmental conservation initiatives.
He stressed that the success of climate action efforts will largely depend on the involvement and commitment of the younger generation.
The forum brought together youth representatives from different parts of the country, environmental experts, development partners and government leaders to discuss the role of young people in environmental conservation and the promotion of a green economy ahead of the 2026 World Environment Day celebrations.
