The Prime Minister of Tanzania, Kassim Majaliwa, speaking at the Youth and Environment Forum held at the University of Dar es Salaam Library Auditorium, has urged all local government authorities in the country to ensure the establishment of centers for waste processing and separation.
He argued the step will ensure that waste, once generated, is handled in a safe and sustainable manner, with the aim of reducing the burden of waste that ends up in landfills or scattered carelessly in residential areas.
“Statistics show that approximately 14.4 to 20.4 million tons of solid waste are generated annually in the country, especially in major cities and towns. However, only about 50% of the generated waste is properly collected and disposed of,” said Majaliwa.
The Youth and Environment Forum, which aims to connect and educate youth on environmental conservation, is part of the national commemoration of World Environment Day, celebrated annually on June 5. This year’s national celebrations will be held in Dodoma.
“As we approach the celebration of World Environment Day on June 5, 2025, it is important for young people to recognize their role in the environmental agenda through this forum. This Youth and Environment Forum should be a catalyst for innovation, awareness, and the engagement of the national workforce in protecting and conserving our environment,” he added.
In addition, Majaliwa called on local government authorities to collaborate with the Ministry of State, Vice President’s Office, Union and Environment to develop plans that empower communities and young people to participate in the carbon trade, adopt and advance clean energy technologies, and support recycling projects.
He noted that on May 28, 2025, the Governments of Tanzania and Japan signed a cooperation agreement for a joint investment plan in the carbon trade, which will enhance the expansion of this market in the country.
Furthermore, the government has established a National Carbon Monitoring Center under the amended Environmental Management Act of 2025.
“I therefore take this opportunity to urge all youth present here to actively participate in environmental conservation and management activities, bearing in mind that this is a chance to generate income and create employment.”
He emphasized that with advancements in science and technology, these challenges can be turned into opportunities that provide jobs for youth, boost the economy, and increase individual income.
Speaking about government strategies to protect the environment, the Prime Minister said the government continues to take various steps, including promoting the use of clean energy and encouraging tree planting.
