Mwanza braces for epic Lake Victoria celebrations

MWANZA: PREPARATIONS for the 2026 Lake Victoria Day celebrations have gathered momentum after Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Saidi Shaibu Mussa, toured the Nanenane grounds in Mwanza ahead of the event scheduled for May 21.

The visit aims at assessing the progress of preparations for the strategic event, which is expected to bring together stakeholders from government institutions, the private sector and international development partners involved in environmental conservation and protection of Lake Victoria.

Speaking during the inspection tour, Ambassador Mussa stressed the importance of professionalism, cooperation and efficiency in the preparations to ensure the celebrations achieve meaningful outcomes for communities within the Lake Victoria Basin.

He said the event will serve as an important platform to strengthen public awareness on environmental conservation and sustainable utilisation of the lake’s resources.

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“Lake Victoria remains a strategic resource contributing significantly to the economic and social wellbeing of countries in the East African region,” he stated.

Moreover, the Deputy Permanent Secretary  underscored the need for sustainable management and protection for the benefit of present and future generations.

Ambassador Mussa further said the annual commemoration provides an opportunity for stakeholders to discuss practical solutions for safeguarding the lake’s ecosystem while promoting sustainable use of water resources for the development of communities surrounding the lake.

Lake Victoria Day was established following a resolution by the East African Community through the Lake Victoria Basin Commission, designating May 21 each year as a special day to recognise the lake’s contribution to member states and to promote joint environmental conservation efforts.