CRS, EU pour 13bn/- for L. Tanganyika

KIGOMA: CATHOLIC Relief Services (CRS), in partnership with the European Union (EU), is implementing a 13bn/- waste management and pollution project aimed at preserving the health of Lake Tanganyika and its biodiversity.

The multi-country project, spanning Tanzania and Zambia, began last month and will be implemented over four years. Its aim is to enhance lake water quality through sustainable and inclusive economic practices.

The initiative, Vitalising Opportunities in Circular Economy and Sustainable Solutions (VOICES), focuses on transforming waste from Lake Tanganyika into income-generating products, especially for low-income communities.

CRS’s Country Manager (Tanzania), Ms Tyler Lanton, said on Tuesday that the overall goal is to support a circular economy by promoting circular business models for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and creating a value chain for waste products.

“By applying circular economy principles, the project aims to reduce waste and generate economic value from local resources, particularly in sustainable agriculture, renewable energy and waste recycling,” Ms Lanton said during the launching.

This initiative aims to unlock greater financing opportunities for businesses focused on the circular economy. CRS, the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States, seeks to uphold the sacredness and dignity of all human life while fostering charity and justice.

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For over 60 years in Tanzania, CRS has supported local communities and implements its programmes through partnerships with the government, international and local organisations and community entities for maximum impact and sustainability.

The transformative project will take place in three districts of the Kigoma region: Kigoma Municipal Council, Kigoma District and Uvinza District. In Zambia, it will be carried out in Mpulungu District. It is expected to directly benefit 119,160 people living along the lake’s shores, with over 2.0 million people anticipated to benefit indirectly, particularly youth and women.

The European Union’s Programme Officer to Tanzania, Ms Letizia Beltrame, said the initiative’s significance for social and economic development in the region, noting its focus on water management and environmental monitoring through scientific research and data collection.

“This project digitalises opportunities in the circular economy and sustainable solutions,” she said.

Additionally, the VOICES Manager Mr Robert Mganzi said that the initiative will work with various community groups, including farmers and fishers, who will be trained in sustainable fishing and agricultural practices to protect the environment.

“Education will be provided to these groups to enhance their understanding, allowing them to turn waste into opportunities and generate income,” he said.

CRS has served local communities in Tanzania for over 60 years, implementing its programmes through partnerships for maximum impact and sustainability.