Tanzania tasks environmentalists to play as a “force” in implementing the Vision 2050

DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA’S  Deputy Minister in the Vice President’s Office (Union and Environment), Kwagilwa Reuben, has urged environmental professionals to view themselves as a “force” responsible for safeguarding the implementation of the National Development Vision 2050, stressing that economic growth must not come at the expense of environmental sustainability.

Speaking in Dar es Salaam while representing the Minister for Union and Environment, Hamad Masauni, at the launch of a fundraising drive for the construction of the headquarters of the Tanzania Environmental Experts Association, Reuben said environmental experts occupy a critical role in advancing the country’s sustainability agenda.

He explained that the National Development Vision 2050 is anchored on three key pillars: a strong, inclusive, and competitive economy; human and social development; and environmental sustainability and resilience. He noted that while the first two pillars draw from a wide range of professions, the environmental pillar depends directly on the expertise and oversight of environmental specialists.

“You are the force that will protect this national pillar. You will ensure that the development we pursue does not degrade the environment, overseeing impact assessments, sustainable resource use, green construction, and climate resilience,” he said.

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He added that the construction of the association’s headquarters is not merely an infrastructure project but a symbol of a new national direction that prioritizes professional leadership and practical action in environmental governance.

Reuben also called on environmental professionals to strengthen unity within their field, build institutional capacity, and actively participate in the country’s development trajectory, assuring them of continued government collaboration to position the environment sector as a central pillar of sustainable development.

Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the Board of the Tanzania Environmental Experts Association, Emmanuel Hanai, said the construction of the headquarters in Dodoma is estimated to cost 63bn/- and is expected to enhance coordination and working conditions for environmental professionals.

Founder and Managing Trustee of Umoja Conservation Trust, Bryan Toshi, called on stakeholders to support the project, noting its broad benefits for the nation and society at large.