Joseph Isangura
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan is expected today to mark her 66th birthday by leading a major tree-planting campaign in Zanzibar, turning the personal milestone into a national call for environmental protection and climate action.
The president is scheduled to join residents in the Bungi Kilimo and Kizimkazi areas as part of the 27th Green Campaign, held under the theme “Patriotism is Protecting the Environment, Join in Tree Planting.” The initiative reflects her broader commitment to conservation, sustainability and community involvement in safeguarding natural resources.
Speaking earlier in Dodoma, government spokesperson Gerson Msigwa said the campaign is not merely a symbolic celebration but a practical step toward strengthening the country’s green cover, protecting water sources, restoring natural vegetation and helping communities respond to the growing effects of climate change.
He called on Tanzanians across the country to take part by planting trees in their homes, schools and farms, emphasising that collective action is key to protecting the environment.
“Trees are life,” Msigwa said. “They provide clean air, support rainfall, protect our soils and increase our ability to cope with climate challenges. Environmental conservation must become part of our daily culture.”
The campaign comes as Tanzania, like many African nations, faces rising temperatures, irregular rainfall and growing pressure on water resources. Environmental specialists continue to stress that tree planting and ecosystem restoration remain among the most effective and affordable solutions for reducing environmental damage while supporting sustainable development.
President Samia has consistently placed environmental protection at the centre of national policy, promoting green investment, sustainable farming and community-based natural resource management. Her leadership has also aligned Tanzania with international environmental goals while encouraging locally driven solutions.
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Born on January 27, 1960, in Kizimkazi, a historic village in Zanzibar, President Samia became Tanzania’s first female head of state and has since prioritised economic growth, national unity, social services and environmental sustainability.
Across the country, regional authorities, schools and community organisations are preparing to support the birthday campaign by planting seedlings in public spaces, roadsides and water catchment areas. In some regions, thousands of seedlings have already been distributed to households to encourage long-term environmental care.
Environmental advocates have praised the president’s planned participation, saying it sends a strong message that leadership must be visible in the fight against climate change.
As Tanzanians prepare to mark the president’s birthday, many view the tree-planting campaign as a meaningful celebration — one that invests not in ceremonies alone, but in protecting the nation’s land, climate and future generations.
Each tree planted today is expected to stand as a symbol of responsibility, resilience and hope for a greener Tanzania. 🌱
