The four-day cleanup was led by Zara Tanzania Adventures, which has spearheaded conservation activities on the mountain for years. According to the company’s Human Resources Manager, Bernard Saini, the bulk of the waste cleared consisted of discarded food containers, beverage bottles and other materials left behind by both climbers and service providers.
“A lot of waste remains on the mountain due to improper disposal by climbers and those who serve them,” Saini explained. “It must be removed to ensure the mountain remains clean and safe.”
He added that Zara Tours organises annual anti-pollution drives in partnership with various organisations as part of its long-term environmental commitment.
Broad Coalition of Tourism Partners Takes Part
This year’s cleanup brought together a diverse group of participants, including Kaza Dan, the Mount Kilimanjaro Porters Society, the Tourism and Environment Social Organisation, Zara Charity, NLT, and Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) through the Kilimanjaro National Park (KINAPA).
Despite the current low tourism season, porters and guides turned out in full support. The Chairman of the Tanzania Association of Porters (TAP), Mohamed Mkoma, praised Zara for spearheading the initiative and stressed that maintaining a clean mountain is essential for those who work there.
“Although this is a low season and a time to rest, we joined the exercise because the mountain is our workplace. We must ensure it is always clean,” Mkoma said.
Call for Manufacturers to Support Anti-Pollution Efforts
The campaign involved 35 participants from various tourism segments. Tour guide representative Gilbert Kasaba noted that much of the waste collected originated from locally produced consumables. He called on manufacturers of items frequently carried by climbers to take an active role in future cleanup initiatives.
“Manufacturers are also tourism stakeholders because their products are used by climbers. They should support these initiatives,” Kasaba urged.
TANAPA Applauds Initiative as a Model for Conservation
Representing TANAPA, Justin Lazaro commended Zara Tours and the broader coalition of partners for their commitment to maintaining the mountain’s natural beauty and ecological health.
“This cleanup exercise sets a model for waste management that other national parks should emulate for the safety of both local and international visitors,” Lazaro said.
As Mount Kilimanjaro continues to draw thousands of climbers each year, stakeholders emphasise that sustainable tourism practices—especially waste management—are essential to protecting the mountain for future generations. The cleanup campaign, they say, demonstrates the power of coordinated action and shared responsibility within Tanzania’s tourism community.