Tanzania Marks World Mangrove Day by Planting 5,000 Trees in Kinondoni.



By Tulizo Kilaga, TFS – Dar es Salaam
August 4, 2025

Tanzania today marked the World Mangrove Day at the national level for the first time by planting a total of 5,000 mangrove trees at Kilongawima, Kinondoni District, Dar es Salaam — a significant step toward protecting wetland ecosystems and combating climate change.

Speaking at the event, Kinondoni District Commissioner, Hon. Saad Mtambule, urged local leaders, residents, and environmental stakeholders to collaborate in protecting mangroves for the benefit of current and future generations.

“When we conserve mangroves, we protect our environment, safeguard lives, and strengthen community livelihoods. Protect wetlands for the well-being of present and future life,” he emphasized.

The celebration, held under the theme “Protect Wetlands for the Well-being of Present and Future Generations,” was attended by stakeholders from various institutions, including TFS, IUCN, WWF, Wetlands International, Earth Lungs, Mwambao Coastal Network, NEMC, TAFIRI, as well as leaders from the districts of Kibiti, Rufiji, Mafia, Bagamoyo, and areas within Dar es Salaam.

Representing the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, Acting Director of Forestry and Beekeeping Division, Seleboni Mushi, stated that mangroves are a unique resource that helps fight climate change, protect marine biodiversity, and enhance food security.

“Mangroves are a shield against storms, a carbon sink, a source of income, and a habitat for biodiversity. They protect coastal life and provide jobs for communities,” said Mushi.

He added that despite these benefits, mangrove ecosystems face serious threats such as land encroachment, illegal logging, and uncontrolled construction, endangering their survival.

On his part, the Deputy Conservation Commissioner from TFS, Salehe Beleko, who represented the Chief Conservation Commissioner Prof. Dos Santos Silayo, said the event was historic as it marked the first national-level celebration of World Mangrove Day in Tanzania.

“This is a historic event. At TFS, we take this matter seriously, and tomorrow we will officially launch the National Mangrove Management and Development Strategy at Protea Hotel,” said Beleko.

He stressed that mangroves are part of the nation’s heritage and require joint efforts from the government, stakeholders, and communities to ensure their proper protection.

Hon. Mtambule also directed local leaders in coastal areas such as Mbweni Maputo, Kunduchi Mtongani, Bweni Taita, Malindi, and Mbezi Beach A and B to take stern measures against the destruction of mangrove habitats, including illegal tree cutting and unplanned construction.

“Let’s enforce the existing laws. TFS should work with local authorities to conduct regular patrols. Demolition is easy; rebuilding is the hard part,” he stressed.

WWF’s Marine Program Coordinator, Dr. Modesta Medard, commended TFS’s contribution to environmental protection, describing the agency as a special force dedicated to safeguarding nature.

“TFS is a model government institution that walks the talk. We are ready to continue collaborating with you,” said Dr. Medard.

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