Tanzania has proposed a closer technical engagement with the Global Environment Facility (GEF) to enhance environmental conservation efforts. The initiative aims to identify funding gaps and prioritise investments in biodiversity conservation and environmental protection. This was announced during talks between Tanzanian Minister of State in the Vice-President’s Office, Eng Hamad Yussuf Masauni, and GEF Chief Executive Officer, Diego Mesa Puyo, in Yerevan, Armenia.
The proposed consultations will involve GEF, the Vice-President’s Office, and relevant sector institutions. The goal is to identify projects requiring financial support and improve coordination in implementing conservation programmes. This move is expected to strengthen cooperation between Tanzania and GEF, ultimately improving access to financing for biodiversity conservation and environmental initiatives.
Eng Masauni presented the proposals during the 17th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity on October 28, 2026. Tanzania has requested guidance on aligning proposed projects with GEF programme priorities. The country also seeks advice on meeting funding eligibility criteria and following procedures for project preparation and implementation.
The Tanzanian government is keen on exploring joint strategies to mobilise resources from various stakeholders. These include the government, development partners, conservation organisations, and the private sector. The aim is to broaden funding sources and sustain environmental projects over the long term.
Discussions will also focus on sustainable conservation financing mechanisms. These include conservation trust funds, payments for ecosystem services, and investments that support environmental protection. Eng Masauni stressed the importance of ensuring such mechanisms safeguard the environment while protecting community interests.
The proposals align with Tanzania’s broader environmental goals. The country aims to prioritise climate finance and reduce harmful gas emissions. These efforts are ahead of the country’s participation in COP31 in Türkiye.
The strengthened cooperation between Tanzania and GEF is expected to yield positive outcomes. Key outcomes include increased access to financing for environmental conservation and improved coordination among stakeholders. This will contribute to the country’s environmental protection and conservation efforts.
Key points
- Tanzania proposes closer technical engagement with GEF to identify funding gaps and prioritise investments in environmental conservation.
- The country seeks guidance on aligning proposed projects with GEF programme priorities and meeting funding eligibility criteria.
- Tanzania aims to explore sustainable conservation financing mechanisms, including conservation trust funds and payments for ecosystem services.
