Tanzania is an outstandingly beautiful country, known throughout the world for its natural heritage. 600,000 tourists were attracted to Tanzania in 1999, and the tourism sector provided 14% of GDP. To safeguard and sustain the environment the Government has designated different areas according to their specific environmental value and needs. Today more than 25% of the area of Tanzania has protected status.

In 1997 the Government approved the National Environmental Policy, setting up for the first time a legal framework to address environmental issues.

Inappropriate agricultural and industrial practices have resulted in a significant degradation of Tanzanian natural resources. In the last three decades the needs of the rapidly increasing population have intensified environmental pressure. In the most sensitive areas this has lead to rapid deforestation, soil erosion, lost of water catchments, pollution and the depletion of wildlife. In response international donors and NGOs have launched a series of initiatives aimed at protecting the most sensitive ecosystems with strong emphasis on involving local communities in the preservation of their environment.

The European Commission actively participates in the protection of the environment in Tanzania. Actions in line with the National Environmental Policy are implemented in partnership with national and international agencies and NGOs. In this way the Commission has been able to forge valuable links and partnerships with those EU member states and NGOs engaged in environmental protection and promotion in Tanzania.

The EC is now supporting 10 environment projects in Tanzania with a total contribution of ?15 Million.

Source: the European Commission's Delegation www.deltza.cec.eu.int/en/