Azania to honour eco-champions in Kilimanjaro

KILIMANJARO: AZANIA Bank will tomorrow present awards to individuals and institutions recognised for their outstanding contributions to environmental conservation in Kilimanjaro Region, in a move aimed at promoting environmental protection and awareness.

The awards ceremony, which coincides with World Environment Day, will take place at the Moshi Cooperative University (MoCU) grounds.

According to the bank’s Kilimanjaro Regional Manager, Mr Yusuph Lenga, the initiative is designed to encourage a culture of tree planting, environmental education and sustainable resource management.

“The awards aim to honour those who have demonstrated leadership in environmental preservation and education in the region,” Mr Lenga said, adding that the effort also reflects the bank’s commitment to supporting healthy communities through environmental sustainability.

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Mr Lenga said that the selection of winners has been overseen by an independent committee and the event is expected to become an annual platform for recognising environmental excellence.

“A good environment contributes directly to human health and economic productivity, which is why we believe these awards can have a long-term impact on community well-being,” Mr Lenga said.

The awards are being organised in collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Kilimanjaro Environmental Preservation (KEP) and Kilimanjaro Plantation Limited, a major player in the region’s coffee industry.

KEP Director Mr Nestory Mushi, who also serves as an Environmental Ambassador in the Vice-President’s Office (Union Affairs and Environment), said the initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to expand environmental conservation activities across the northern zone.

“Since 2023, we have planted trees across schools, universities and water sources in Kilimanjaro, Tanga, Arusha and Manyara. We believe these awards will further motivate people to take responsibility for protecting their environment,” Mr Mushi said.

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Ms Olga Shuma, representing Kilimanjaro Plantation Limited, said the coffee industry depends heavily on a stable environment and welcomed the partnership with Azania Bank.

“A thriving coffee sector requires a healthy ecosystem. We are proud to support efforts that raise awareness and promote action on environmental sustainability,” she said.