HOW TANZANIA IS TURNING GLOBAL CLIMATE PLEDGES INTO LOCALIZED REALITY, POST-COP - 30

 

Dar es Salaam, by John Kabambala-kabambalajohn1@gmail.com

During a pivotal two-day conference held at Aura Suites Hotel in Dar es Salaam, Tanzanian climate leaders gathered with international partners to deliberate on translating global climate commitments into concrete local action. The primary objective was to chart a course for actionable climate initiatives. Convened shortly after the UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, Brazil, the forum underscored the urgent need to prioritize the voices of marginalized communities and youth in climate policy discussions and implementation.

Dr. Sixbert Mwanga: Executive Director Climate Action Network Tanzania (CAN Tanzania)

Delivering the opening address, Dr. Sixbert Mwanga from the Climate Action Network Tanzania (CAN Tanzania) extended heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Tanzania for its guidance in shaping the forum’s agenda. He also acknowledged key donors including the Embassy of Ireland, the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), the Embassy of Switzerland in Tanzania and the Oxford Policy Management Institute under the Wajibika Program for making the dialogues possible Dr. Mwanga emphasized that the two-day gathering was not merely about high-level conversation. “It is about ensuring that the agreements reached in Belém are adapted to fit the real-life contexts and needs of Tanzanian communities,” he said. His message was clear, climate action cannot be effective without the full inclusion of all voices, especially people with disabilities and other groups often sidelined in national and international forums.Sylviabay Kijangwa: Executive Director, Women in Climate Tanzania

“I must begin with sincere appreciation to the government and Embassy of Ireland,” said Sylviabay Kijangwa. “At a time when participation costs were high and opportunities limited; Ireland made a deliberate decision to support youth engagement from Tanzania. This support was not symbolic it was practical and results oriented.” Thanks to this backing, a young delegate from Mbeya traveled to Belém and actively participated in COP30 discussions. “As Derrick Mwakyeja, we were able to support him in partnership with the Irish Embassy,” she noted. “This was not just attendance it was about bringing grassroots realities into global policy conversations.”

Local experiences from farming communities affected by shifting weather patterns were represented in discussions on adaptation, finance, and implementation at the global level. The funding also supported youth climate communicator Zakia Marisho, who used digital platforms to simplify COP30 outcomes and share them with young people across Tanzania. “For Women in Climate Tanzania, this was a defining moment,” Kijangwa reflected. “We have long dreamed of amplifying grassroots voices on the global stage. With Ireland’s support, that vision took its first concrete step a small step, but an important one.”

Still, she stressed that representation is only the beginning. “The real question is implementation. What changes in Tanzania after COP30? How do global agreements influence national budgets? How do international finance discussions reach local projects? This post-COP30 forum offers a platform to begin answering those questions.” With Tanzania having adopted Vision 2050 a forward-looking framework centered on resilience, economic transformation, and sustainability climate action must be seen as foundational to development. “Without climate-resilient agriculture, food security is at risk. Without climate-smart infrastructure, investments are vulnerable. Without environmental protection, economic growth becomes unstable,” she said. “Youth are positioned at the heart of this foundation.”

Her Excellency Nicola Brennan, Ambassador of Ireland to Tanzania,  

Ireland’s Ambassador Recognizes the Power of Representation and Partnership

Her Excellency Nicola Brennan, Ambassador of Ireland to Tanzania, expressed satisfaction with the strong representation at the forum, particularly from youth organizations and journalists. She highlighted the vital role journalists play in reporting responsibly on climate issues and the actions being taken. “This forum is about building transparency, openness, and accountability,” she said, calling on everyone to take personal responsibility for protecting the planet. For over six years, the Embassy of Ireland has funded youth participation in COP processes demonstrating a long-term commitment to investing in the next generation.

Mary Robinson: An Inspiring Light in the Fight for Climate Justice

The Ambassador reminded participants of the legacy of Mary Robinson, Ireland’s first female president and a passionate advocate for climate justice. “Robinson broke the glass ceiling for women and continues to inspire young people worldwide,” she said. The Embassy pledged to donate a copy of Robinson’s book on climate justice to Women in Climate Tanzania, hoping her example of bold, transformative leadership will inspire future generations.

The Impacts of Climate Change Threaten Our Very Existence: Speakers agreed that the effects of climate change are already visible and threatening lives and livelihoods. The Ambassador noted how rising temperatures are affecting ecosystems, economies, and smallholder farmers pointing to Dr. Mwaanga’s observations about farmers in Mbeya. “This is a challenge for everyone,” she said. “We must continuously remind young people and future generations that the fight against climate change is an ongoing, daily responsibility.”

Localizing Global Pledges: The Major Challenge Ahead: The Ambassador stressed that high-level policies alone are insufficient. “The governments of Tanzania and Ireland make international pledges, but implementation is what yields real results.” She urged participants to use the two days to develop practical actions and collective solutions. “Local voices and actions are what matter most. Everyone has a role to play in their own community.”

Tanzania’s Role in the International COP Forum: COP30 in Belém served as a platform for multilateral dialogue. The Ambassador noted that the conference took place at a time when the multilateral system is under strain, making cooperation even more essential. Enhanced goals and actions at both national and local levels are needed, and all participants must contribute.

Ireland Prepares for EU Presidency and COP31: The Ambassador announced that Ireland will hold the Presidency of the European Union from July to December this year. One of its main responsibilities will be to lead COP31 negotiations in Turkey on behalf of the EU. She encouraged forum participants to use the embassy as a channel to convey their views and recommendations into international discussions. “This is a unique opportunity for Tanzania to influence global climate policy through partnerships like ours.”

Ireland’s Financial and Moral Commitments Met: Ireland has committed to halving its greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. The Ambassador proudly announced that Ireland has met its goal of doubling climate finance by 2025, including through its development programs in Tanzania. These funds have supported youth-led organizations like Women in Climate Tanzania, strengthening youth participation in climate action.

The Embassy’s Role in Building Climate Resilience: The Embassy collaborates with Tanzanian stakeholders on climate initiatives in agriculture, livestock, the blue economy, gender equality, health, and social protection. “We support direct climate action while ensuring all our development programs are climate-resilient,” the Ambassador said. She also recognized Fadal, the embassy’s climate lead, for driving internal change such as promoting the use of solar energy.

The Irish Embassy Sets an Example with Renewable Energy: The Ambassador emphasized that the embassy leads by example through internal greening efforts in energy, waste, and water management. “Fifty percent of the energy we use comes from solar panels installed six years ago,” she noted. She encouraged others to seek funding and implement similar initiatives, proving that every institution can contribute to climate action.

A Call for Inclusive, Practical Action: In closing, the Ambassador reiterated the need for practical, inclusive solutions. She welcomed the presence of representatives from persons with disabilities, youth, and women groups often excluded from decision-making. She wished participants productive deliberations and looked forward to the forum’s outcomes: concrete actions and joint recommendations for tackling climate change in Tanzania.

Mr. Fredrick Binamungu,  A Youth Voice in COP-30 Negotiations.

Mr. Fredrick Binamungu: A Youth Voice in COP30 Negotiations: Fredrick, one of the Tanzanian youth delegates at COP30, shared his experience of following the adaptation track. He described working closely with the Vice President’s Office, participating in drafting documents and negotiation group sessions. Their involvement was deep and structured, including pre-sessions organized by the African Group of Negotiators, where youth were assigned to tracks like mitigation, and loss and damage.

Pre-COP30 Strategy: National Collaboration: Before COP30, youth participated in preparatory sessions organized by the Vice President’s Office and development partners. These ensured national priorities were well represented. Additionally, the youth network Climate Cycle organized a session for Tanzanians in Rwanda to support the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) through advocacy. All efforts were aligned with Tanzania’s Development Vision and National Youth Development Policy.

Youth Engagement in Various Negotiation Tracks: Fredrick explained how youth delegates were divided into negotiation tracks adaptation, mitigation, and loss and damage. Sponsored by organizations like Women in Climate Tanzania, delegates such as Derrick Mwakyeja collaborated with activists and civil society. Support from UNDP and embassies like Ireland’s enabled meaningful youth participation in formal discussions.

Meeting World Leaders: Enhancing Tanzania’s Visibility: Tanzanian youth held bilateral talks with world leaders and development partners. Fredrick led some of these meetings, which aimed to elevate Tanzanian youth priorities in climate and development cooperation. Tanzania’s leadership of the African Group of Negotiators last year facilitated youth participation and demonstrated the country’s commitment to inclusive engagement.

Collaboration with the African Group of Negotiators: Fredrick highlighted the successful collaboration with the African Group of Negotiators, citing leaders like Dr. Richard Nyungi now at the Vice President’s Office as examples of how youth leadership is recognized. This partnership gave young people access to high-level platforms, including commemorations of 30 years of climate policy milestones.

Successes and Challenges of Youth Participation in Tanzania: Fredrick noted significant progress in youth visibility, capacity, and policy relevance. “Previously, Tanzanian youth were just participants. Last year, we were inside negotiation rooms, consulting with the Vice President’s Office,” he said. The main challenge remains the high cost of travel to COP, but last year’s success proved that with guidance and opportunity, young people can actively contribute.

Strengthening Negotiation Skills: A Priority for Youth: Despite progress, Fredrick acknowledged the need for stronger technical skills. The current forum includes capacity-building sessions to address this. He also announced the launch of the African Youth Negotiation Hub a direct outcome of youth advocacy which will equip young people with the skills to become influential negotiators.

Ensuring Formal Youth Participation in Decision-Making: A key youth recommendation is to formalize their participation in COP and integrate it into decision-making. Fredrick shared that they are working with YUNGO (the official youth constituency of the UNFCCC) and the COP presidency to ensure Tanzanian and African youth priorities are presented at ministerial meetings. “The goal is to have well-trained youth delegates who can shape climate policies with future generations in mind.”

Meeting the UN Secretary-General: Fredrick recounted meeting UN Secretary-General António Guterres at COP30, where he voiced youth concerns directly. “This shows Tanzanian youth can reach the highest levels and be heard. Investment in young people turns them into powerful climate ambassadors.” Thanks to the Government and Development Partners, on behalf of the youth, Fredrick thanked the Government of Tanzania especially the Vice President’s Office for their continued support. He also expressed gratitude to UNDP, WaterAid, and the Embassy of Ireland for enabling youth participation and learning on international platforms.

A Call for Youth to Take Leadership Roles for COP31, Fredrick urged Tanzanian youth to seize emerging opportunities, including the newly announced youth presidency position in the COP process. “Preparation for COP31 starts now. Youth must step forward and ensure their voices shape decisions that will transform our nation.”

Dr. Freddy Manyika: Translating COP30 Outcomes into National Action

Dr. Freddy Manyika explained that the forum brought together stakeholders who attended COP30 to share insights with Tanzanians who could not be there. Key outcomes from Belém included agreements on criteria and indicators for measuring climate change impacts across sectors. These will guide monitoring and response strategies. He also highlighted a new global fund of approximately $200 million to address climate impacts. Countries on the list of those most affected will be eligible for up to $20 million each. Dr. Manyika confirmed that Tanzania has already begun preparing its project proposal for this fund.