By Justina Onguto, DICA
In celebrating the World Oceans Day, the University of Dar es Salaam in collaboration with various environmental stakeholders and the local community brought together over 300 volunteers to clean up the Kunduchi Beach in Dar es Salaam and thereafter debate about the impact of marine littering to the environment.
Coordinated by the School of Aquatic Sciences and Fisheries Technology (SoAF) and the Directorate of Internationalisation, Convocation and Advancement (DICA), this activity took place on Saturday, 3rd June 2023.
Fired by the theme "Planet Ocean: Tides are Changing, Time to Put the Ocean First," the event kicked off with a spirited beach cleanup effort, and witnessed an impressive turnout, with over 300 volunteers actively involved in the initiative.
The volunteers’ groups consisted of UDSM alumni, students, staff, members from the local community and some Non-Government Organizations dealing with environmental conservation such as NIPE FAGIO, WOMESA, BMU KUNDUCHI FERRY as well as SEA SENSE.
SoAF Dean, Dr. Blandina Lugendo noted that a total of 188 waste bags were collected with the combined weight of 6,810 kilogrammes. The waste bags were carefully sorted to ensure appropriate disposal and recycling, in alignment with sustainable waste management practices.
“Volunteers from all walks of life, armed with gloves and trash bags, have gathered at the picturesque coastline to rid it of debris and litter that pose a threat to marine life. The participants have indeed showcased their dedication to protect the oceans as they meticulously combed the sands, ensuring that not a single piece of waste was left behind”, said Dr. Lugendo.
Meanwhile, after the successful cleanup exercise, a thought-provoking dialogue was held at SoAF, focusing on the Impacts Marine litter and society's role in mitigating this pressing issue. Esteemed experts, UDSM Alumni, and representatives from environmental organisations congregated to share insights, exchange ideas, and propose effective solutions.
The discourse delved into the multifaceted nature of marine pollution, highlighting the detrimental impact of inadequate waste management practices, excessive plastic consumption, and denigrative industrial activities.
The Director of Internationalisation, Convocation and Advancement, Dr. Augustina Alexander, applauded participants for the passionate debate which extolled the responsibility of society in preventing and reducing ocean waste, emphasising the urgent need for collective action to safeguard our marine ecosystems.
“The event garnered overwhelming support, with attendees commending the University of Dar es Salaam for its proactive approach to addressing the ocean waste crisis. The collaboration of SoAF, DICA, UDSM Alumni, and environmental stakeholders is a shining example of the power of synergy in environmental conservation”, said Dr. Alexander.
Dr. Lugendo also added that the debate ignited a spark among participants, encouraging them to take immediate action in their personal lives and communities. Ideas ranged from advocating for firmer waste management policies to promoting sustainable practices and supporting local conservation initiatives.
“The beach cleanup served as a plain visual reminder of the harmful consequences of marine pollution. The removal of litter and waste from the Kunduchi Beaches not only prevented them from entering the sea but also raised awareness about the importance of responsible waste disposal practices” said Dr. Lugendo.
Many participants commended the initiative and said that it inspired a renewed sense of urgency and commitment to protecting our oceans. The collective efforts displayed on World Oceans Day exemplified the growing global movement to preserve marine ecosystems for future generations.
As the sun set on the eventful day, the resounding message was thus clear: safeguarding our oceans is a shared responsibility, and through continued collaboration and action, we can create a sustainable future where our seas thrive.