By Charles Mkoka
Dar es Salaam — Tanzanian environmental authorities have called for stronger public participation, youth engagement and sustainable investment to safeguard the country's natural resources while advancing economic development.
The call was made during Environment Day celebrations held alongside the 50th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (Sabasaba).
Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary in the Vice President's Office responsible for Union and Environment affairs said environmental protection remains central to Tanzania's development agenda, noting that the government continues to provide policy direction and support for environmental management initiatives across the country.
The Permanent Secretary, who also honored the event added that environmental conservation, clean energy adoption and sustainable resource use are critical to achieving Tanzania's long-term development aspirations, including the implementation of the country's Development Vision 2050.
National Environment Management Council (NEMC) Director General Dr Immaculate Sware Semesi said the celebrations had provided an important platform for bringing together young people, educational institutions, civil society organisations and the private sector to exchange ideas and showcase environmental innovations.
She said NEMC's "Environment Village" at the exhibition had enabled visitors to learn about environmental conservation, waste management, environmental impact assessments and sustainable business practices.
"Environmental success requires the participation of everyone; government, businesses, young people, experts, educational institutions and communities," Dr Semesi said.
She noted that the council continues to encourage investors and developers to undertake environmental and social impact assessments before implementing projects to ensure development activities do not compromise environmental sustainability or community welfare.
Dr Semesi also stressed the importance of separating waste at source and expanding recycling initiatives, describing waste as a valuable resource capable of generating jobs, business opportunities and income through the growing green economy.
"For us at NEMC, waste is an opportunity," she said.
The director general highlighted growing youth participation in environmental initiatives, saying young people are increasingly contributing solutions through innovation, recycling, green technologies and entrepreneurship.
NEMC plans to strengthen collaboration with young people, artists and media practitioners as part of broader efforts to raise awareness, promote responsible environmental practices and accelerate public participation in conservation efforts.
The event also featured exhibitions and public education programmes, honoring awards, signing of contracts as well as entertainment practises among guests, celebrities and spectators.
Continued cooperation between government agencies, businesses, communities and development partners will be essential to protecting Tanzania's natural heritage while creating economic opportunities for future generations.
