Call for NEMC to be equipped with helicopters, drones for operational efficiency

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Minister of State in the Vice President’s Office (Union and Environment), Hamad Yusuf Masauni, has called for the National Environment Management Council (NEMC) to be equipped with modern tools, including helicopters and drones, to enhance its operational efficiency.

Masauni made the remarks on March 30, 2026, during the national commemoration of the International Day of Zero Waste, held at Mnazi Mmoja Grounds. The event brought together government leaders and key environmental stakeholders.

In his address, Masauni issued a strong warning to environmental offenders, including plastic bag manufacturers, individuals who litter indiscriminately, those discharging untreated wastewater into the ocean, and sources of noise pollution. He emphasized that strict legal action will be taken against violators.

He further noted that the government plans to amend existing legislation to grant NEMC greater enforcement powers, enabling it to act decisively against environmental violations regardless of whether the offenders are from the public or private sector.

Reinforcing accountability, Masauni stated that he would not tolerate poor environmental conditions in Dar es Salaam, warning that any institution failing to comply with environmental laws or to leverage waste-to-resource opportunities would face legal consequences.

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He also encouraged citizens to use the event as a learning platform on how to convert waste into income-generating resources, highlighting its potential contribution to both individual livelihoods and national economic growth.

On his part, Ilala District Commissioner Edward Mpogolo, representing the Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner, announced that the region has introduced environmental conservation studies in primary and secondary schools. He noted that 10 schools have already been selected to pilot the program.

Mpogolo added that the regional government, in collaboration with NEMC, will conduct training for waste collection companies and contractors to ensure that waste segregation and processing begin at the source.

Meanwhile, the Director General of NEMC, Immaculate Semesi, stated that the government is strengthening waste collection and recycling systems. She emphasized the need for a paradigm shift in which waste is viewed as a resource rather than merely as pollution.