Z’bar plays key role in marine sustainability

ZANZIBAR: MINISTER of State in the Office of the Second Vice-President of Zanzibar, Policy, Coordination and House of Representatives, Mr Hamza Hassan Juma, said Tanzania has been playing an important role in committees and secretariats dealing with marine and environmental matters.

He said the country’s participation has enabled it to contribute to international discussions and efforts to address challenges facing the marine sector. Mr Hamza said the ocean is an important resource for Tanzania, offering opportunities in fisheries, maritime transport, trade, tourism and other economic activities.

He stressed the need to ensure that marine resources are used sustainably while protecting the environment. According to the minister, Tanzania should continue investing in research, risk assessment and modern technologies to generate reliable information for effective management of marine resources and increased benefits to citizens.

He also called for stronger cooperation among the government, experts, legislators, the private sector and communities in developing the blue economy. Mr Hamza said broad stakeholder participation is essential to ensure that opportunities arising from marine resources benefit the people.

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He added that the government will continue strengthening public education on proper use of marine resources and environmental conservation to ensure the resources remain a foundation for development for present and future generations.

Permanent Secretary in the Union Vice-President’s Office (Environment), Dr Richard Muyungi, said the meeting brought together permanent secretaries from institutions dealing with the marine sector to review research findings and analyses by experts. He said participants were expected to adopt joint resolutions to strengthen management of marine resources and increase national benefits from their sustainable use.

Dr Muyungi said the meeting, held every two years, was particularly significant this year as it coincided with major activities, including a general meeting and celebrations marking 40 years since agreements related to the sector were reached.

He said the occasion demonstrated member states’ commitment to implementing the agreements and translating their objectives into tangible results in marine conservation and sustainable resource use. He stressed that regional and international cooperation remained essential in addressing challenges affecting marine areas and promoting sustainable development.