The EfD Tanzania held its much-anticipated Policy Day on January 13, 2025, at the University of Dar es Salaam. Under the theme Towards a Greener and Bluer Economy: Strategies for Sustainability, the event brought together researchers, policymakers, and private-sector representatives to explore strategies for sustainable development in Tanzania.
The day was marked by engaging research presentations, insightful panel discussions, and thought-provoking debates on pressing environmental and economic issues.
Researchers presented sustainable solutions
The event featured five groundbreaking research presentations, each addressing critical aspects of sustainability. Dr. Yusuph John Kulindwa highlighted the role of job reservations for women in improving empowerment and household well-being through externally funded projects. His findings emphasized integrating training and awareness initiatives with employment opportunities to achieve holistic empowerment.
Dr. Matilda Stanslaus Ntiyakunze presented her work on the welfare impacts of the REDD+ carbon payment program in Zanzibar’s mangrove forests. While showcasing the socio-economic and environmental benefits of carbon trading, she called for increased transparency and equitable distribution of carbon credits to enhance community participation.
Gender issues highlighted in many policy areas
Ms. Theresia Livinus Mrosso delved into the potential of clean energy technologies in cooking practices, showcasing the efficiency and affordability of LPG with pressure cookers. Her research called for policy reforms to scale up clean cooking technologies and subsidies to support widespread adoption.
Dr. Innocensia John’s presentation on indigenous crops underscored their untapped potential in bridging the food security gap. She advocated for promoting indigenous crops in school gardens, supporting value chain investments, and raising public awareness of their nutritional benefits.
Concluding the research session, Dr. Martin Chegere examined the gendered dynamics of nutritious food consumption. His work revealed the need for targeted nutrition training, improved infrastructure, and subsidies to ensure low-income households, especially those led by women, have access to balanced diets.
An energy transition presents both opportunities and challenges
A lively panel discussion on Tanzania's transition to modern energy featured distinguished experts, including Prof. Samuel Wangwe, Dr. David Biswalo, and Dr. Wilhelm Ngasamiaku. Key barriers, such as cultural mindsets and high initial costs, were identified, alongside the potential of renewable energy investments. Samuel Wangwe emphasized the need for fiscal incentives and a favorable regulatory framework to attract foreign and domestic investments in renewable energy.
Wilhelm Ngasamiaku highlighted the role of green bonds in financing climate projects, while David Biswalo advocated for tailored tax incentives to spur renewable energy adoption. The panel concluded with a call for coordinated efforts among stakeholders to ensure a seamless transition to clean energy.
Serves as a call to action
The EfD Tanzania Policy Day served as a platform for collaboration and dialogue, reaffirming the importance of evidence-based research in shaping sustainable development policies. As Dr. John Mtui, representing the Dean of the School of Economics, noted, “The transition to a greener and bluer economy is not just a national priority but a global imperative. Collaboration between researchers and policymakers is key to achieving this vision.”
EfD Tanzania continues to champion the integration of research findings into actionable policies, paving the way for a sustainable future.
By Salvatory