Tanzania urges global community to turn sea-level pledges into action

At a United Nations General Assembly meeting on sea-level rise, Tanzania’s Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi emphasized that rising oceans are no longer a future risk but a present reality affecting communities worldwide. He noted that Tanzania’s extensive Indian Ocean shoreline, including Zanzibar and other islands, makes the country especially exposed, with millions dependent on fishing, tourism and trade. The statement outlined domestic actions such as strengthening coastal protection, mangrove restoration, water-security improvements and community-led adaptation projects.

Nonetheless, Ndejembi argued that these steps are insufficient without reliable climate finance, technology transfer and effective early-warning systems for vulnerable developing nations. He reaffirmed support for a joint declaration emerging from the meeting, urging the world to move from promises to measurable implementation.