Tanzania calls for inter-agency cooperation to combat ecological challenges

Dodoma. The government has highlighted the urgent need for stronger collaboration among its institutions to address Tanzania’s mounting environmental challenges, including pollution, biodiversity loss, and the spread of invasive species such as water hyacinth in major water bodies like Lake Victoria.

Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office (Policy, Parliament, and Coordination), Dr Jim James Yonazi, made the remarks on Wednesday, 30 April 2025, following discussions with officials from the National Environment Management Council (NEMC), led by Director General Dr Immaculate Sware Semesi.

Dr Yonazi stressed that only through coordinated efforts between ministries and government agencies can Tanzania effectively combat the growing threats to its natural ecosystems. He underscored that environmental issues are cross-cutting in nature and require a shared sense of responsibility.

In acknowledging NEMC’s role, Dr Yonazi commended the Council for its ongoing efforts in environmental protection and called for increased investment in technological tools and capacity building to strengthen local institutions.

For her part, Dr Semesi reaffirmed NEMC’s commitment to supporting government priorities and lauded the Prime Minister’s Office for its leadership in promoting sustainable development that aligns with environmental conservation.