By Our Reporter, Zanizibar
Tanzania is preparing a six-point national agenda for the upcoming Nairobi Convention COP12, with the government seeking stronger protection of marine resources while expanding their contribution to the economy and coastal livelihoods.
Acting Minister of State in the Zanzibar First Vice President’s Office, Hamza Hassan Juma, said yesterday that Tanzania’s position at the meeting must reflect national priorities and provide a clear policy direction on the sustainable use of marine and coastal resources.
He said the country’s responsibility to host the conference was a major honour that demanded thorough preparations, unity and close coordination among government institutions.
“This conference is important in implementing both the Zanzibar Development Vision 2050 and the National Development Vision 2050, which emphasise sustainable development, environmental conservation and the responsible use of natural resources for the benefit of present and future generations,” he said.
Mr Hamza spoke in Unguja when he opened a meeting of permanent secretaries and technical experts from ministries and government institutions to discuss Tanzania’s preparations for COP12.
He said the committee should focus on six strategic areas, led by strengthening a blue economy that combines economic opportunities with conservation and sustainable use of marine resources.
The priorities also include strengthening the ability of coastal communities to cope with climate change, preventing and controlling marine pollution, and protecting critical ecosystems such as mangroves, coral reefs and coastal areas.
Mr Hamza said marine resources were increasingly under pressure from environmental degradation, unsustainable exploitation and the dumping of waste into the ocean.
“These challenges require a common voice and coordinated action to protect these resources,” he said.
The preparations are significant for Tanzania because millions of people across the country depend directly or indirectly on marine and coastal resources through fishing, tourism and other economic activities.
Mr Hamza said developing a strong national position would also strengthen Tanzania’s role in promoting conservation and sustainable management of marine and coastal ecosystems across the Western Indian Ocean region.
Permanent Secretary in the Vice President’s Office, Dr Richard Muyungi, said the committee was determined to ensure Tanzania’s interests were adequately captured ahead of the conference.
“We have planned to ensure that all Tanzanians benefit from the COP12 conference to be held in Tanzania. The advice, views and recommendations provided by experts will be processed and discussed in greater detail,” he said.
The Nairobi Convention provides a regional framework for the protection, management and sustainable development of the marine and coastal environment of the Western Indian Ocean.
Its contracting parties include Tanzania, Comoros, Kenya, Somalia, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles and France.
With Tanzania set to host COP12, the government says its preparations will focus on ensuring that regional commitments translate into practical measures for protecting marine ecosystems and supporting communities whose livelihoods depend on the ocean.