DAR ES SALAAM: THE organic waste management projects carried out in Dar es Salaam helped to clean its streets and suburbs, improving its public health and reducing waste-related diseases.
The Tanzanian economic capital, has been facing a pressing issue with waste management, generating approximately 5,300 tons of mixed solid waste daily.
It was revealed today during the Dar es Salaam Urban Programme (DURP) workshop that brought together a wide range of stakeholders to discuss the ongoing implementation of research findings aimed at improving the management of fruit and vegetable waste in the region.
During the workshop, it was noted that this waste not only poses a challenge to the city’s infrastructure but also threatens the health and well-being of its residents.
However, innovative projects aimed at improving the management of fruit and vegetable waste offer a promising solution, benefitting both the environment and public health.
Setting up waste sorting, recycling, and composting initiatives will generate jobs in the waste management and environmental sectors.
A recent report from the Preliminary Research Report of January – March 2024, conducted under the Dar es Salaam Urban Resilience project with support from the UK Government Centre of Expertise, outlines how this new initiative will create lasting positive change in the city.
The main focus of the workshop was to address the critical issue of organic waste and its significant environmental impact.
The program is designed to unite municipal directors, stakeholders, and business partners across the city to promote effective waste management strategies.
One of the key achievements so far has been in Kigamboni, where the program has successfully raised public awareness about the importance of managing organic waste.
This initiative is expected to drive sustainable waste management practices, benefiting both the environment and the local community.
Jaku Jaku, the Special Department Environmental Officer from the Ministry of State in the President’s Office, Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG) in Zanzibar, highlighted several benefits of improving organic waste management. He emphasized that effective waste management can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, a major contributor to global warming.
“Waste products are useful in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and can also help mitigate urban flooding, a significant concern in cities like Dar es Salaam, where drainage systems are often overwhelmed during heavy rains. Moreover, organic waste can be composted to enhance soil fertility, thus improving agricultural productivity in the region,” he explained.
Jaku further noted that the program’s significance extends beyond environmental benefits. He emphasized that it would help protect Tanzania’s environment, reduce pollution, and improve public health by preventing the spread of diseases. Additionally, the initiative is expected to create employment opportunities for local residents, contributing to the country’s economic development.
Deepa Solanki, the DURP Portfolio Manager, shared that the initiative, which started in July last year, aligns with global efforts to create sustainable cities and reduce environmental degradation.
Sarah Pima, the Executive Director of the Human Dignity and Environment Care Foundation (HUDEFO), assured continued collaboration with stakeholders to manage organic waste effectively, ensuring it benefits society as a whole.
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This initiative is a crucial step toward creating a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for Dar es Salaam and its residents.
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