DODOMA: Tanzania has underscored the importance of regional cooperation in protecting marine and coastal environments, as preparations begin for a major climate-focused conference scheduled for October.
Permanent Secretary in the Vice President’s Office (Union and Environment), Richard Muyungi, said the Nairobi Convention plays a key role in coordinating efforts among East African countries to address the impacts of climate change on coastal and marine ecosystems.
Speaking during a meeting with officials from the Nairobi Convention Secretariat in Dodoma, Muyungi said the upcoming conference would provide a platform for countries in the region to exchange experiences, assess challenges and develop joint strategies.
“The conference will help strengthen collaboration in addressing climate change impacts on marine and coastal environments,” he said.
Muyungi added that Tanzania is preparing to host the meeting in line with international standards and called for close cooperation among stakeholders to ensure its success.
The head of the Nairobi Convention Secretariat, Jared Bosire, praised Tanzania’s environmental management efforts and reaffirmed support for the conference preparations.
Separately, Tanzania’s Parliamentary Standing Committee on Water and Environment commended the Vice President’s Office for implementing environmental programmes that contribute to sustainable development.
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The committee, chaired by lawmaker Jackson Kiswaga, said projects carried out across the country have helped promote behavioural change, including reducing deforestation and encouraging environmentally sustainable livelihoods.
“We have seen positive results in communities adopting conservation practices and moving away from activities that harm the environment,” Kiswaga said.
He urged authorities to expand public awareness campaigns, particularly in rural areas where environmental education remains limited.
Minister of State in the Vice President’s Office (Union and Environment), Hamad Yussuf Masauni, said the government is pursuing legal and institutional reforms to strengthen environmental protection.
He said plans to upgrade the National Environment Management Council (NEMC) into a more powerful authority are at an advanced stage, with draft legal amendments expected to be tabled in parliament.
Masauni also said NEMC has begun constructing a Lake Zone headquarters in Geita region, which will include a centre of excellence for environmental education.
