Dar es Salaam Launches Comprehensive Cleanliness Campaign

On November 14, 2026, the Dar es Salaam regional administration launched a comprehensive cleanliness campaign aimed at addressing environmental challenges and promoting public health. The campaign, which was launched by Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila, seeks to encourage residents to take responsibility for maintaining cleanliness in their homes and surroundings. Chalamila emphasized the need for collective action to address the region's environmental challenges, including the improper disposal of waste, blocked drains, and dirty markets and beaches.

Dar es Salaam generates approximately 4,600 tons of waste, posing significant challenges to the region's environment and public health. Chalamila urged residents to take ownership of cleaning up their surroundings, stating that "Dar es Salaam has no one to clean it up for us; it's our responsibility." The campaign aims to ensure that Dar es Salaam remains clean, particularly in preparation for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations and other international meetings scheduled to take place in the country.

The cleanliness campaign is not a one-time event but rather an ongoing effort to promote a culture of cleanliness among residents. Chalamila emphasized that cleanliness should be a part of daily life, not just a preparatory exercise for major events. The campaign's slogan, "Kila mmoja aanze usafi nyumbani kwake" (Everyone starts cleanliness at home), reflects the administration's commitment to engaging residents in the effort to maintain a clean environment.

The Dar es Salaam regional administration has put in place strategies and goals to address environmental challenges, including the deployment of a team of bouncillors to oversee the cleanliness exercise and enforce regulations against environmental polluters. Additionally, the administration has received support from a Ghanaian investor who will manage the Pugu dump site and process waste.

Local government authorities in Dar es Salaam have pledged their support for the cleanliness campaign. Razalous Mwakiposa, Chairman of the Local Government Authorities in Dar es Salaam, stated that all 564 wards in the region have committed to participating in the campaign to ensure a clean environment. Mathew Andrew, Chairman of the Dar es Salaam Cleaning Contractors, emphasized the importance of collaboration among stakeholders in achieving the goal of a clean Dar es Salaam.

To support the campaign, the administration has provided resources, including motorcycles, to monitor the implementation of the campaign and report on its progress. The campaign also aims to create awareness about the importance of maintaining a clean environment and promoting public health. Residents are encouraged to report environmental offenders and participate in clean-up initiatives.

The Dar es Salaam regional administration has called for support from residents, stakeholders, and development partners to sustain the cleanliness campaign. The administration aims to create a culture of cleanliness that will outlast the campaign and contribute to a healthier and more sustainable environment for residents. Key to this effort is the involvement of local communities and stakeholders in promoting and maintaining cleanliness in their neighborhoods.

Key points

• The Dar es Salaam region generates approximately 4,600 tons of waste, posing significant environmental and public health challenges.