Tanzania’s Environmental Challenges and World Environment Day 2024

Tanzania’s Environmental Challenges and World Environment Day 2024

Tanzania, a country known for its rich biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, is facing significant environmental challenges as reported by the country's State of the Environment Report of 2019. As we approach World Environment Day (WED-2024), it's crucial to highlight these issues and re-discuss true people-centred solutions.

1. Climate Change Threats

Tanzania's coastal and island regions are especially vulnerable to climate change, facing significant risks from rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and ocean acidification. Coastal erosion threatens communities, infrastructure, and ecosystems. The islands, including Zanzibar, Pemba, and Mafia, must adapt to climate change while preserving their unique biodiversity. Recent floods in Rufiji and Dar es Salaam, along with Hurricane Hidaya, have reminded Tanzanians of the severity of climate change. The tragic death of over 125 individuals, as reported by Prime Minister Hon. Kassim Majaliwa, underscores the harsh impact of climate change on Tanzania.

While death is the greatest loss, there are many other significant challenges. Food production has been severely impacted by heavy rainfall and runoff. In Rufiji and Kilwa, such damages have been reported, although not fully documented. Additionally, road infrastructure connecting different regions has been damaged, prompting President Samia Suluhu Hassan to allocate over 66 billion Tanzanian Shillings for reconstruction. These challenges, along with the power outages and water shortages of 2023, starkly remind Tanzanians of the harsh realities of climate change. They also underscore the urgent need to address climate change both within and beyond Tanzania's borders. See actions needed below:

2. Pollution

Pollution levels are escalating in the larger urban areas of Tanzania. Frequently, solid and liquid wastes are not processed, leading to the pollution of both air and water sources. Specifically, in Dar es Salaam, due to the limited access to sewage infrastructure, waste is often released directly into the sea, which has detrimental effects on marine ecosystems and organisms. Projections by the C-40 initiative indicate that, if current population growth trends continue, Dar es Salaam could become one of the most polluted areas by the year 2050.

3. Degradation of natural resources exacerbates the problem. Unsustainable deforestation, driven by demand for wood as fuel and construction material, leads to soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and reduced ecosystem services.

4. Conflicts Over Land Use

Local communities and institutions often clash over land use. Rapid urbanization, agricultural expansion, and infrastructure development encroach upon traditional lands. These conflicts strain relations and hinder sustainable land management. The lack of clear guidelines exacerbates tensions between competing interests.

5. State of the Environment Reporting

Despite the Environmental Management Act of 2004, which calls for regular environmental reporting, Tanzania has not provided a comprehensive state of the environment report for over two years. Such reports are essential for informed decision-making, policy formulation, and public awareness.

6. Increasing Natural Disasters

Tanzania faces a rising frequency of natural disasters. Floods disrupt livelihoods, damage infrastructure, and displace communities. Droughts threaten water availability, agriculture, and food security. Human-wildlife conflicts escalate as habitats shrink and wildlife encroaches on human settlements.

World Environment Day 2024: Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience

On June 5, 2024, Tanzania joins the global community in celebrating World Environment Day. Hosted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, this year's theme focuses on land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience. Land restoration is critical for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and protecting ecosystems.

Actions Needed:

1.      Strengthen Environmental Governance: Implement the Environmental Management Act effectively, ensuring regular reporting and accountability.

2.      Promote Sustainable Land Use: Balance competing interests, involve local communities, and protect critical ecosystems.

3.      Invest in Climate Resilience: Enhance disaster preparedness, improve water management, and support climate-smart agriculture.

4.      Raise Awareness: Educate citizens about environmental challenges and empower them to participate in conservation efforts.