ZANZIBAR First Lady Maryam Mwinyi has called for continued joint efforts in environmental protection for the sake of maintaining ecology for national development.
She made the statement on Friday while launching the environmental conservation camp branded ‘Nitunze’ in an event that was held at the Botanic Garden, Unguja.
Ms Mwinyi who is also the Chairperson of Zanzibar Maisha Bora Foundation pledged to work closely with the government in protecting the environment as well as supporting tree planting initiatives in the isles.
“The Nitunze campaign is a perfect initiative that has been initiated by the management of the Botanic Garden to train youth and other players on how best they can participate in the environmental conservation programmes,” she said.
The first lady also commended the management of the Botanic garden for engaging youth in the program, a move that eventually, will create employment opportunities for the youth in the isles.
According to her, the Nitunze campaign has come at the right time, as it is in line with the government’s policy and strategies on conserving the environment for betterment of the present and future generation.
“It is a commendable initiative that needs support from all players; we at the Zanzibar Maisha Bora Foundation are ready to work closely with stakeholders in preserving this garden,” she noted.
Established in 1870, the garden is the only botanic garden in Zanzibar. It is also one of Isles historical sites. It has rare plants and trees, beautiful butterflies and colourful flowers that make it worth a visit.
More so, the botanical garden plays a vital role as a testing ground for newly introduced economic plants and in the development of agriculture in Zanzibar.
The garden developed the collection of exotic and indigenous species, it was used as an arboretum for educational purposes and as a nursery for the sale of seedlings.
The garden, which is currently under the management of the Zanzibar Municipality Council, stands as one of Zanzibar’s historical sites.
“The garden has helped in creating employment for youth who have secured jobs in various companies dealing with tree planting and garden maintenance,” added the first lady.
She was optimistic that the management for the Botanic garden will continue being creative and innovative on issues related to environmental conservation.
