Dutch embassy in Tanzania launches ‘No Waste’ campaign to promote recycling, protect marine life

Dar es Salaam. The Embassy of the Netherlands in Tanzania has launched a new public awareness campaign dubbed No Waste, aimed at promoting environmental cleanliness through improved waste management and recycling practices.

The initiative, which was launched on July 9 by the Dutch Ambassador, Mr Wiebe de Boer, features beach clean-ups, waste recycling activities, and student engagement in efforts to cultivate a culture of environmental responsibility.

Speaking during the launch held at Coco Beach in Dar es Salaam, Mr de Boer noted that waste management should not be regarded solely as the responsibility of the government but rather as a shared duty for all citizens.

“Waste should not only be seen as a problem—it can also be the beginning of something new. Recycling must become a habit. If each person takes responsibility, we will no longer need special clean-up campaigns,” he said.

The campaign involves students from primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions, including an inter-university Clean Cooking Club, in a bid to inspire the younger generation to influence their families and communities.

Coco Beach, a focal point for the campaign, hosts a permanent waste collection point operated by Africraft, which accepts recyclable materials throughout the year.

Mr de Boer also underscored the economic potential of recycling.

“People are already generating income through waste collection and reuse. If more people recognised the value in this, we would not only enjoy cleaner surroundings but also enhanced livelihoods,” he said.

A senior official at the Netherlands Embassy, Ms Chikulupi Kasaka, said the embassy has long been involved in environmental conservation efforts, including the establishment of a public waste management and education centre.

The initiative is being implemented in collaboration with the Doors of Hope Foundation. Its founder, Ms Shamim Nyanda, highlighted the significance of youth participation.

“Young people must be at the heart of environmental protection. By engaging them now, we are nurturing a more conscious and sustainable society,” she said.

She added that the campaign also places emphasis on marine conservation.

"The ocean is heavily polluted, yet it is essential to our survival. We are proud to see children actively participating in cleaning marine areas—we want our oceans to remain safe and clean,” she said.