Tanzania moves to proper handling of plastic waste in a bid to safeguard industrial growth

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Tanzanian government has reaffirmed its commitment to working with stakeholders to strike a balance between plastic waste management, environmental protection and industrial growth as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s economy.

Minister for Industry and Trade, Judith Kapinga, made the remarks in Dar es Salaam during a stakeholders’ meeting on plastic waste management.

She said addressing plastic waste requires a comprehensive approach because it affects both environmental conservation and industrial production, which plays a vital role in creating jobs, generating government revenue and driving economic growth.

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The minister noted that continued dialogue between the government and key stakeholders is essential in developing sustainable solutions that protect the environment while enabling industries to remain productive and competitive.

Meanwhile, Minister of State in the Vice-President’s Office (Union and Environment), Hamad Masauni, said the meeting was convened in line with President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s vision of strengthening collaboration between the government and the private sector in environmental management.

He said closer cooperation among stakeholders will help develop practical strategies for addressing plastic waste while promoting sustainable industrial development and environmental conservation.