TAA, DTB to plant five million trees at airports

Hai. DTB Bank has announced plans to plant five million trees at all airports operated by the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA) by 2030 across Tanzania.

The initiative aimed at restoring natural ecosystems and mitigating the effects of climate change at these vital transport hubs.

This ambitious initiative was confirmed today, Saturday, April 26, 2025, by the bank’s chief executive officer, Mr Ravneet Chowdhury, during the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Diamond Trust Bank Tanzania (DTB) and TAA at Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA).

As part of the agreement, the bank has already planted 15,000 trees at KIA to commemorate the 61st anniversary of the Union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar.

Speaking at the event, Mr Chowdhury emphasised the role trees will play in carbon sequestration, helping to absorb and store carbon dioxide, and strengthening the environment against the impacts of climate change—particularly around airports, leaving a positive green legacy for future generations.

“Tanzania, like many other countries, faces numerous environmental challenges, such as deforestation, biodiversity loss, and unpredictable climate changes that threaten agriculture, water access, and people’s livelihoods,” he said.

“By planting trees, we are combating climate change and providing natural solutions to enhance our environment, including areas around our airports,” added Mr Chowdhury.

He highlighted that trees absorb carbon and enhance urban spaces by protecting water and soil, beautifying landscapes, and contributing to the sustainability of local ecosystems.

“Our airports are not just transport hubs; they are gateways to the world, symbols of national pride, and crucial in the fight against climate change. By greening our airports, we send a strong message to the world that Tanzania is committed to a sustainable future,” he added.

TAA Director-General, Mr Abdul Mombokaleo, expressed the authority’s full support for the initiative, stressing that the partnership with DTB was a step forward in combating climate change and preserving Tanzania’s natural heritage for future generations.

“This tree planting ceremony aligns with the shared goal of promoting sustainable environmental management at airports. It is a model step toward a sustainable development journey,” said Mr Mombokaleo.

“We are also reaffirming our commitment to President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s green agenda and the broader environmental goals of our nation,” he added.

Mr Mombokaleo also noted that tree planting was part of a broader initiative to enhance the country’s environmental sustainability while also improving the aesthetics of Tanzania’s airports, which are increasingly important to both tourism and business.

Kilimanjaro Regional Commissioner, Mr Nurdin Babu, said a local touch to the ceremony by announcing that pastoralists in surrounding communities are now prohibited from bringing livestock near the airport area.

The goal, Mr Babu said, is to preserve the aesthetic beauty of the area while ensuring the longevity of the trees that have been planted.

“Today, as we plant trees, I remind the local councilors and the chairman of the KIA Ward that livestock should not be allowed near these trees,” stressed Mr Babu.

“We must ensure that this area remains pristine, and even tourists and visitors will be able to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful landscape when they arrive at the airport,” he insisted.