Over 80 fined for environment degradation

IN efforts to protect the environment which includes stopping deforestation and illegal sand harvesting, some 82 people including 46 from Pemba were arrested and sentenced to pay fines after being found guilty of destroying the ecosystem.

State Minister- First Vice President’s office (responsible for environment protection) Ms Harusi Said Suleiman informed the House that tough measures included mounting nationwide campaign to ensure such destructions are stopped.

“It is a fact that despite the ongoing public awareness, our country is still faced with environmental degradation and this requires concerted efforts and commitment to control before it is too late,” the Minister said, adding that some seesaws were confiscated after carrying out 30 operations this year.

The Minister’s statement was in response to concerns raised by some backbenchers in the House of Representatives that illegal sand harvesting leaves behind big holes, and tree-cutting in many areas of Unguja and Pemba also leave the areas with no vegetation on the surface.

That was after the Legislator, Mr Juma Ali Khatib asked to know the required depth sand diggers are supposed to reach in their activities, with the Minister for Energy, Water, and minerals (also include sand), Mr Hassan Kaduara informing the House that digging for sand requires permit(s) and does not allow exceeding three metres deep.