The Prime Minister of Tanzania, Dr Mwigulu Nchemba, has officially launched the Tanzania Online Continuous Emission Monitoring System (TOCEMS), a new digital platform designed to strengthen the country's fight against environmental pollution.

Developed by the National Environment Management Council (NEMC), the system aims to help authorities monitor pollution levels continuously and enforce environmental laws more effectively.

The launch coincided with NEMC’s 40th anniversary celebrations in Dar es Salaam, which brought together government officials, environmental experts, development partners, and private stakeholders.

Dr Nchemba highlighted the urgent need to address environmental degradation, warning that issues like deforestation, desertification, water shortages, and declining rainfall are already affecting communities.He stressed that a clean and safe environment is critical for the survival of humans and wildlife.

The Prime Minister also mentioned that the government has increased the agriculture budget significantly to promote irrigation and reduce forest destruction caused by uncontrolled farming.With Tanzania’s population expected to surpass 100 million in the next 30 years, strengthening environmental institutions like NEMC is vital.

Dr Nchemba called on Tanzanians to adopt sustainable lifestyles and for NEMC to intensify environmental education campaigns at family and community levels.The event also featured exhibitions highlighting innovations and initiatives in environmental conservation across the country.