Airtel Tanzania has vowed its support to fight against plastic pollution by backing ocean cleaning exercises aimed at preserving natural aquatic life forms.
Airtel made this affirmation during a joint beach cleanup event, which is part of the Unplastic Africa initiative that brought together government officials, Airtel staff members, officials from the National Environmental Management Council (NEMC), and residents living in Mbezi Beach B.
Speaking on behalf of the government, the Chairperson of Mbezi Beach B, Asha Vionatis, commended Airtel Tanzania for leading by example in corporate environmental responsibility, urging the mobile company to continue with the initiative at least once a month as a strategy to ensure the beaches remain clean from plastic pollution.
“Plastic pollution is one of the biggest threats to our marine ecosystems. It is encouraging to see a company like Airtel taking meaningful steps to raise awareness and mobilise the community toward lasting environmental change,” said Asha Vionati.
The cleanup exercise, which took place along Kidimbwi Beach, is an initiative that involved short awareness sessions on proper waste disposal, the importance of proper waste disposal practices, and the long-term impact of plastics on biodiversity.
Speaking during the event, on behalf of the Acting Manager at the National Environmental Management Council (NEMC) East Zone North, Environmental Management Officer, Jeremiah Nyakwaka, called upon the public, investors running businesses along the shores of the Indian Ocean, and various institutions to engage in the best waste disposal practices to conserve the environment.
“I urge everyone in all zones to ensure we conserve and protect the environment through these shores. If the environment is affected, we will also be negatively impacted by the pollution. We have continued to implement awareness campaigns in schools on proper management and protection of our surroundings,” said the Acting NEMC Manager.
On her part, Airtel Tanzania Director of Communication and Regulatory Affairs, Beatrice Singano, said the Unplastic Africa initiative is part of the company’s broader sustainability commitment to support environmental conservation in Tanzania, citing that plastic pollution is one the biggest global problems.
“As Airtel, we believe that sustainable development goes hand in hand with protecting our environment. This beach cleanup is not just a one-off activity; it’s a statement of intent. We are committed to supporting Tanzania’s national environmental goals,” said Beatrice Singano
According to the United Nations Environmental Program (UNEP), every year 19 to 23 million tonnes of plastic waste leak into aquatic ecosystems, polluting lakes, rivers, and seas. This is a problem that needs to be addressed immediately with consistent and sustainable solutions.
Ms Singano added that, being in the communication and innovation sector, Airtel Tanzania is also disseminating bulk messages to sensitize and build public awareness of environmental conservation and how a safe and clean environment is key to living sustainable livelihoods.
The Unplastic Africa event concluded with a pledge by Airtel Tanzania to continue working with government agencies, and various development stakeholders to protect and create cleaner, safer, and more sustainable coastal environments.
