New initiative protects Mount Kilimanjaro environment

DAR ES SALAAM: AN environmental conservation and sustainable tourism initiative of ‘Guardians of the Peak Season II’ has been launched with the aim of intensifying advocacy for clean energy use, youth empowerment and the protection of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania’s most iconic natural heritage.

The launch was announced during a press conference held on Wednesday, in Dar es Salaam, bringing together representatives from government institutions, development partners, private-sector sponsors, the media and university students.

Speaking at the event, Project Founder of ‘Guardians of the Peak’, Mr Ramadhani Ally, said Season II focuses on promoting clean energy adoption, strengthening environmental conservation efforts on Mount Kilimanjaro and empowering young people to become environmental and tourism ambassadors.

“Our main focus is to inspire the use of clean energy, encourage environmental protection around Mount Kilimanjaro and equip young people with the skills and capacity to serve as ambassadors of conservation and tourism,” Mr Ally said.

He emphasised that university students are central to the project, noting that youth engagement is critical to building a resilient tourism sector and sustainable environmental management in Tanzania.

“Young people, especially university students, have proven to be a powerful force in this project. Through them, we are shaping a Tanzania with strong foundations in tourism development and environmental conservation,” he added.

Mr Ally further revealed that the initiative also seeks to strengthen cultural exchange between Tanzania and China, attract trade and economic investment from China and other international markets and enhance bilateral relations between the two countries.

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Representing the Tanzania Film Board, the Director of Film Development, Mr Emmanuel Ndumukwa, commended the organisers for using film and documentaries as effective tools to promote environmental conservation.

“Our responsibility as the Film Board is to ensure Tanzanian films contribute to environmental protection and sustainable tourism. Through films and documentaries, people can clearly understand the importance of conservation,” Mr Ndumukwa said.

Mr Joseph Kahama, Secretary General of the Tanzania and China Friendship Promotion Association, praised the initiative for addressing critical environmental and tourism challenges while strengthening diplomatic, cultural and tourism ties between Tanzania and China.

On his part, Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) Conservation Officer Mr Alois Munka assured full cooperation, saying the authority is ready to support the initiative to ensure safety, environmental protection and positive community impact during project activities.

Season II places strong emphasis on clean energy use on Mount Kilimanjaro to reduce environmental degradation caused by firewood and charcoal use, while empowering surrounding communities with sustainable alternatives.