PLANTING and nurturing trees to mitigate the severe impacts of drought on vital sectors such as water, livestock and agriculture would constitute a united front among environmental stakeholders and the public to combat desertification and drought, the government believes.

Khamis Hamza Khamis, the Union and Environment deputy minister in the Vice President's Office (VPO) made this affirmation here yesterday when officiating at the national event to mark the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought. This collective effort, both material and financial, is crucial for the well-being of present and future generations, he said, reiterating collaboration with international agencies “to restore one billion hectares of degraded land by 2030.” 

Tanzania is among countries significantly affected by drought, thus having to implement various measures to address the issue effectively, via collaboration with sectoral ministries, public agencies, bilateral and multilateral organisations, non-governmental organizations, the private sector and religious institutions, he said.

He –pointed at the national action plan to combat desertification and drought and a review of the National Environmental Policy, stressing ongoing promotion of productive and environmentally sustainable livestock keeping.

This effort recognizes that unsustainable practices contribute to desertification and drought, he said, explaining the national event as intended to raise public awareness about the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification and Drought.

The protocol is important to global efforts, particularly in highly affected African nations, he stated, whereas Julius Mtatiro, the district commissioner, praised VPO for recognizing the significance of celebrating this day in the region. 

Given Shinyanga's vulnerability to drought, it is vital to use this day to mobilize tree planting efforts to prevent desertification, he emphasised.

He lauded government initiatives in implementing various development projects that not only aid environmental conservation but also stimulate the economy, citing the Lake Victoria water project as a catalyst for tree planting, providing water for general use and watering tree nurseries, etc. The day's events included a tree-planting exercise at Kambarage Health Center under the theme "restore land to unlock opportunities."