TANZANIANS have been urged to harness economic opportunities through recycling and reuse of eco-friendly waste such as plastic bottles and food remains to protect the environment and turn major cities into a green economy hubs.

The call was made in Dar es Salaam at the weekend by Grace Tupa, Environmental Officer at the National Environment Management Council (NEMC) during the launch of the National Green Economy Forum organized by Taifa Letu Foundation under the TK Movement.

“Let’s work together to protect the environment and grow the economy through eco-friendly waste,” said Tupa at the event in Chanika, marking the launch of Ilala ya Kijani (Green Ilala) initiative.

She said the project targets women and youth with training on environmental conservation, the value of recyclable waste, and proper handling of hazardous materials—all aimed at advancing a green economy.

Herman Kajiru, TK Movement Coordinator for Dar es Salaam, said Green Ilala is meant to unite environmental advocates and promote sustainable collaboration.

“The long-term initiative aligns with the government’s goals in clean energy and environmental protection,” he said.

He said the project has so far mobilized 1,500 women and youth from across Dar es Salaam’s districts for training on income generation through eco-waste and hazardous waste management. “We plan to expand it nationwide, including Zanzibar,” he added.

Patrick Lumumba, Country Director of the African Guarantee Fund, said the organization supports small-scale traders—especially women and youth—through loans aimed at growing their green businesses.

“We invest in traders who use environmental solutions to boost their income,” he said. “Our focus is to empower women and youth with financing to grow sustainably and create economic opportunities for others.”

Lumumba stressed that inclusive community engagement is vital in tackling environmental challenges and advancing equitable economic growth.

 Halima Mhando, Deputy Coordinator of TK Movement, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting the government’s development agenda.

 “Women are the heart of family and youth are the nation’s energy. Their strong response to this initiative proves their power in driving sustainable economic transformation,” she said.