Date: 16th – 20th March 2026
Location: TEC, Dar es Salaam

Overview

From 16th to 20th March 2026, I had the honor of participating in the Environmental Science Café Conference held at TEC in Dar es Salaam. The event was organized under the Laudato Si’ Africa initiative, bringing together environmental stakeholders from across the continent.

The conference convened participants from several African countries, including Zimbabwe, Malawi, Sudan, Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, creating a diverse platform for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and regional dialogue on environmental sustainability.

Participation and Experience

As an environmental stakeholder, this opportunity provided a valuable space to both contribute and learn. Participants shared practical experiences, successful approaches, and challenges faced in their respective countries in advancing environmental protection.

Key discussions focused on:

• Strengthening environmental protection strategies across Africa
• Sharing community-based solutions and policy approaches
• Promoting sustainable practices and awareness
• Encouraging collaboration among stakeholders

The engagement allowed for meaningful exchange of ideas and reinforced the importance of collective responsibility in addressing environmental challenges.

Significance of Laudato Si’

The conference was guided by the principles of Laudato Si’, a 2015 encyclical by Pope Francis titled “On Care for Our Common Home.” This document emphasizes the urgent need for global action to address environmental degradation, climate change, and social inequality.

Core themes highlighted during the conference included:

• Integral Ecology: Recognizing that environmental and social issues are interconnected, and solutions must address both ecological and human challenges
• Urgent Action: Acknowledging the environmental crisis and the need for immediate, collective response
• Interconnectedness: Understanding that all people and ecosystems are linked, and actions have far-reaching impacts
• Cultural Reflection: Addressing unsustainable consumption patterns and promoting responsible, inclusive development

Impact and Reflection

Participating in this conference was both inspiring and affirming. It provided recognition of ongoing efforts in environmental conservation and an opportunity to represent real experiences from the field.

The discussions reinforced the understanding that the environment is fundamental to human life — as our shared home, it requires continuous care, protection, and responsible stewardship.

Conclusion

The Environmental Science Café Conference served as a powerful platform for collaboration, learning, and advocacy. It strengthened networks among African environmental stakeholders and emphasized the need for unified action toward sustainable development.

I extend my sincere appreciation to Laudato Si’ Africa for the invitation and for creating a space that encourages dialogue, innovation, and commitment to protecting our environment.

📸 Photos and videos from the conference are provided below.