Tanzanian environmental advocate Irene Mmbaga has advised young people that if they wish to progress, they should focus on practical action rather than mere words—as actions are visible much faster than words.
Speaking on November 5, 2026, to environmental journalists attending a two-day capacity-building seminar—organized by MAIPAC and held at the Mbezi Garden Hotel in Dar es Salaam—Irene Ombeni Mmbaga emphasized that actions are generally noticed more quickly than words.
Ms. Mmbaga shared that this has been her own personal experience; after completing Form Four, she decided to become an environmental advocate. She began by taking practical action for the environment, documenting her work, and sharing it on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok under the handle @usafinairene—a strategy that allowed her to gain visibility rapidly.
She noted that she is passionate about environmental work, where the results are defined by tangible actions rather than talk. She urged young people to work hard and stop complaining that the government has failed to address certain issues, pointing out that the youth themselves have the capacity to take action.
Mr. Switbert Vedasto, Ms. Mmbaga’s manager—who is currently pursuing a PhD through a bilateral program in Germany—shared his perspective on her work… Mmbaga is considered an environmental champion because her work is practical and visible to others—including public institutions and private companies—who have now begun to involve her in various environmental campaigns.
Mr. Vedasto noted that the BBC was the first to put her on the map as an environmentalist after broadcasting one of her projects; this exposure helped many people learn about her and brought her significant recognition in the environmental sector.
He explained that, following this recognition, the Vice President’s Office honored her by appointing her as a national environmental ambassador. Additionally, the President’s Office for Regional Administration and Local Government (TAMISEMI) has tasked her with traveling across all regions of Tanzania to promote environmental cleanliness. She continues to receive inquiries from various institutions and companies seeking to collaborate with her.
Ms. Eva Mwambungu, a lawyer for the THRDC, advised the environmentalist and her manager to formalize her work legally, ensuring that others cannot misappropriate her ideas for their own gain while leaving her with nothing.
Journalists attending the seminar agreed to organize a major environmental campaign in Dar es Salaam, led by Ms. Mmbaga—the environmental advocate who also serves as an environmental ambassador.
