Waste is no longer just trash—it is an opportunity. As Tanzania prepares to celebrate the International Day of Zero Waste from March 28 to March 30, 2025, the focus is on transforming waste into valuable resources.
The National Environment Management Council (NEMC), in collaboration with the Dar es Salaam Regional Office, will lead the event at Mnazi Mmoja Grounds, emphasizing waste management as a means of economic growth and environmental sustainability.
The International Day of Zero Waste, established by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2022, is observed annually on March 30.
This year’s global theme is "Enabling Zero Waste in the Fashion and Textile Sector," while Tanzania’s national theme is "Waste is Opportunity."
The national theme underscores the value of waste as a resource rather than mere trash. By embracing the Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle (3Rs) principle, the country aims to foster a circular economy that supports sustainable national development.
The international theme encourages the use of environmentally friendly materials and innovative practices in the fashion industry to minimize waste disposal and incineration.
NEMC has committed to educating the public on effective waste management practices while ensuring compliance with environmental laws across various sectors.
“Our goal is to create awareness that waste is not just something to be discarded—it can be transformed into valuable products that generate income and contribute to economic growth,” said Amina Kibola, Manager for Law Enforcement at NEMC.
“We want communities to understand that proper waste management benefits both the environment and livelihoods,” she added.
The event at Mnazi Mmoja Grounds will feature participation from over 100 stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector players, civil society organizations, and special groups.
These stakeholders will showcase how they utilize waste materials to create new products, generate employment, increase income, and contribute to economic growth while maintaining a clean environment.
“This event provides a platform for businesses and innovators to share their experiences on how waste can be turned into opportunity,” Kibola added.
“We encourage everyone to come and learn about sustainable waste management solutions,” she insisted.
NEMC urges all Tanzanians to actively participate in waste management efforts nationwide by separating waste based on type and category.
This will facilitate efficient disposal and recycling processes in line with the principles of zero waste.
The public is encouraged to visit Mnazi Mmoja Grounds from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily during the event to gain insights into waste management solutions and explore investment opportunities in the sector.
"Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle (3Rs) – Our Environment, Our Life, Let’s Protect It," Kabola insisted.