The government has issued a stern warning to people and companies that continue to produce or import plastic bag products that have been banned for human consumption in the country.
The warning was issued by the Minister of State in the Office of the Vice President [Union and Environment], Engineer Hamad Masauni.
Engineer Masauni said the government will continue to conduct surprise patrols in factories, factories and markets to identify and take action against all those involved in the trade.
Engineer Masauni issued the warning on May 27, 2025 in Dodoma while issuing a Government statement ahead of the World Environment Day celebrations.
He said the celebrations will culminate in Dodoma region and the official guest is expected to be the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan.
The move comes as a result of the emergence of the challenge of the use of plastic packaging such as tubings used as carriers and packaging that do not meet the qualifications or criteria set by the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS).
Engineer Masauni has directed the National Environmental Conservation and Management Council (NEMC), Local Government Authorities and other public authorities to continue monitoring and identifying all those who violate the law and produce plastic products that are banned from being produced and used in the country.
“Let me remind my fellow Tanzanians to adhere to the Government’s instructions to abandon plastic bags and use alternative bags that are currently available nationwide at affordable prices”, said Engineer Masauni.
He said that despite the challenge, Tanzania has largely taken steps to control plastic waste after banning the production, import, distribution and use of plastic bags from June, 2019, a move that has helped reduce environmental pollution.
Engineer Masauni said the Government has continued to provide public education to ensure that citizens gain understanding in identifying plastic bags and packaging that are allowed for human consumption.
He also called for the participation of the private sector in the production of alternative bags that are environmentally friendly.
Minister Masauni said the celebrations will be adorned with product exhibitions from various environmental stakeholders, service providers and innovations regarding environmental protection.
The celebrations will start from June 01 to 05, 2025 in Dodoma.
He said there will be a separate Conference that will bring together young people such as college students, entrepreneurs and environmental ambassadors. The conference will be held in Dar es Salaam on June 03, 2025.
According to the Civil Engineer, the theme of this year’s celebration is ‘Next Tanzania, Let’s Take Responsibility Now, Control Plastic Use’ which aims to remind the community that the environment and its resources are the basis of life and livelihood and economic growth, therefore the care and conservation of the environment and its resources is an important matter.
