THE United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) reiterated its commitment to bolstering Tanzania’s environmental protection efforts, particularly in advancing its clean cooking energy agenda.

UNEP Deputy Director Elizabeth Mrema made the remarks yesterday during the meeting with the Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Vice President’s Office (Environment) Christina Mndeme on the sidelines of the 11th Annual Subcommittee meeting of the Committee of Permanent Representatives of UNEP commenced yesterday in Nairobi, Kenya.

Mrema thanked the government of Tanzania through the Vice President’s Office for its contributions in the agendas which were presented and discussed during the five-day meeting.

She assured that the contributions will be integrated into UNEP’s strategic plan for 2023/24 to stimulate conservation and climate change mitigation.

Mndeme expressed gratitude for UNEP’s ongoing support in implementing various environmental conservation projects and combating climate change in Tanzania.

She also appealed for UNEP’s assistance in areas such as carbon trading and the blue economy to enhance income opportunities for Tanzanian citizens and the nation as a whole.

The meeting commenced early this week, convened to review UNEP’s programmes from 2022-2023 and to outline the work plan and budget for 2023-2024.

Discussions centred on UNEP’s initiatives in climate change, biodiversity preservation, and environmental pollution, in preparation for the upcoming United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7) meetings.

The Committee of Permanent Representatives, an essential body within UNEP, oversees the implementation of UN Environment Assembly decisions; guides programme development and budgeting, and provides oversight of the secretariat's activities. It comprises accredited representatives of UN Member States, specialized agencies, and the European Union, ensuring comprehensive global participation.