Blog Content

Dr. Philip Mpango, Vice President of Tanzania’s call to action was, “Ending plastic pollution is not just a government duty, it is our shared responsibility for the generations to come.” This was the rallying call that brought together thousands of Tanzanians on June 5th, 2025, to mark World Environment Day. From the bustling heart of Dodoma to the energetic coast of Dar es Salaam, government leaders, civil society, environmentalists, youth, and most importantly waste pickers, came together with one message: the time to act is now.

At the National Commemoration held at the Jakaya Kikwete Convention Centre in Dodoma, the guest of honor, H.E. Dr. Philip Mpango, Vice President of the United Republic of Tanzania, called on every Tanzanian to take environmental responsibility seriously. “Let us plant more trees, promote clean cooking energy, and embrace recycling technologies. Ending plastic pollution is not just a government duty it is our shared responsibility for the generations to come,” said Dr. Philip Mpango.

The Vice President’s words echoed across the venue, where over 100 waste pickers, mobilized by Juza Waste Pickers Initiative, stood proudly showcasing their daily contributions to cleaner cities and healthier communities. Often unrecognized, waste pickers are the unsung heroes of our environment. 

We also turned up in an event organised by the Human Dignity and Environmental Care Foundation (HUDEFO), the Vice President’s Office (VPO), the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), Catholic Relief Services (CRS) and many environmental stakeholders at World Environment Day celebrations. Waste pickers visibility took a powerful turn. Dressed in reflective vests and armed with determination, they joined the Walk and Pick activity in Dar es Salaam shoulder to shoulder with government officials and youth leaders collecting plastic waste and raising awareness on the streets from the Police Officers’ Mess to Kaunda Junction. “We may work informally, but our impact is formal. We collect, sort, and recycle what others discard. We are not a problem—we are part of the solution.” Said Mwanaidi, Waste Picker from Dar es Salaam.

During the exhibition, our waste pickers explored innovative solutions showcased by stakeholders from across the waste and recycling sector. They learned about circular economy models, recycling education tools, and eco-friendly product innovations. Being part of this knowledge exchange was empowering, building confidence and expanding skills.

Our Executive Director Nassibu Kitabu joined a high-level panel discussion focused on fighting plastic pollution. He proudly spotlighted the invisible yet essential role of waste pickers as frontline fighters for environmental justice and sustainable cities. He highlighted how informal workers manage recyclable waste in Dar es Salaam without formal pay, recognition, or PPE safety tools. Waste pickers deserve to be integrated into municipal and national systems, recognised, valued, and have their rights.

He commented that, “Waste pickers are the backbone of Tanzania’s waste management system, working daily to reduce pollution, recover materials, and protect public health, often without recognition or support. If we are serious about ending plastic pollution and building a circular economy, then we must place waste pickers at the centre of our National Waste Management Strategy. Inclusion is not charity,  it is justice, and it is smart policy.”

Mr. Kitabu also received, on behalf of the waste picker community, the newly launched Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Report and National Waste Management Strategy 2025–2030. These documents recognise the role of waste pickers in formal waste systems and give a pathway to policy inclusion and better working conditions.

On another occasion, waste pickers voices were raised during Plastic Pollution Dialogue. During a high-level panel at Karimjee Hall, our executive Director, delivered a bold message on inclusion: “Waste pickers are the backbone of Tanzania’s waste management system. If we are serious about ending plastic pollution and building a circular economy, then we must place waste pickers at the centre of our National Waste Management Strategy. Inclusion is not charity, it is justice, and it is smart policy.”

In Dar es Salaam, the celebration continued at Mnazi Mmoja Grounds, where waste pickers participated in a clean cooking energy festival organized by the City Council. As waste pickers showcased their work, they were officially recognized as key environmental stakeholders. “Through recycling, we not only reduce pollution but also contribute to a greener economy. We are proud of our role and grateful for the government’s support,” commented Rehema, Female Waste Picker from Ilala.

Women waste pickers, many of whom lead households, are now being seen as environmental leaders. Their participation in events like these empowers them with visibility, respect, and access to opportunities. Youth waste pickers, on the other hand, bring energy and innovation to the circular economy movement. “Sports and environmental education go hand in hand. Events like these inspire young people to act and innovate for a sustainable Tanzania,” said Ilala District Commissioner, Hon. Edward Mpogolo.

Meanwhile, at Makuburi Primary School in Ubungo where the peak celebration took place, we were honored with a certificate of excellence and a trophy presented by the District Commissioner, recognizing the organization’s tireless efforts in environmental conservation. “Involving waste pickers is not only socially just but economically and environmentally smart. Their work deserves dignity, support, and policy integration,” said Hon. Albert Msando, District Commissioner, Ubungo.

Ultimately, World Environment Day 2025 was not just a day of celebration, it was a call to action and recognition. Waste pickers are no longer on the sidelines of environmental policy, they are taking the front seat. With continued support from governments, partners and civic champions across the country, Tanzania is paving the way for a just, inclusive, and sustainable future. Recognising and supporting waste pickers is not just good for the environment—it is good for our collective humanity.“We are ready to walk with the government, with institutions, with communities. Waste pickers are not waiting for change, we are already part of it,” concluded Nassib Kitabu.