The Agroecology and Circular Economy for Ecosystem Services (ACE4ES) Consortium, in partnership with the Tanzania Organic Agriculture Movement (TOAM) and with support from the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), organized a high-profile hybrid sensitization workshop in Chamwino District. The event brought together stakeholders from across Tanzania to discuss innovative solutions for sustainable agriculture and climate action.
The workshop focused on reducing agriculture-associated short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs), particularly methane and black carbon emissions, and promoting agroecology and circular economy approaches to enhance food systems’ sustainability and resilience.

A Collaborative Approach to Agricultural Transformation
The event featured a combination of physical and virtual participation, emphasizing regional collaboration and knowledge sharing. Anatory Maestro Gabriel, Executive Director of TOAM, delivered opening remarks at the physical gathering in Chamwino, highlighting the importance of agroecological practices in addressing both environmental and socioeconomic challenges.
“This workshop underscores the need to integrate sustainable farming methods into national and local agricultural systems. With the support of partners like CCAC, Tanzania can lead the way in transitioning to agroecology and circular economy solutions,” said Mr. Gabriel.
Joining virtually, Dr. Kwaku Onwona-Hwesofour Asante, ACE4ES Project Lead from the CSIR-Crops Research Institute in Ghana, delivered a keynote address on mitigating SLCPs through agroecology. He noted, “The agriculture sector plays a dual role in climate change—it is both a victim and a contributor. By adopting agroecology and circular economy practices, we can turn agriculture into a powerful tool for climate action.”
Key Discussions and Highlights
The workshop included:
Presentations: Dr. Asante outlined strategies to reduce methane from rice paddies and black carbon from maize farming, providing case studies and actionable recommendations.
Participatory Discussions: Experts debated innovative solutions for climate-smart agriculture, highlighting the need for policy integration and capacity building.
Policy Review: Stakeholders reviewed the draft regional policy guide on agroecology and circular economy, offering constructive feedback to align the framework with Tanzania’s development goals.

Acknowledging Global Support
The ACE4ES Consortium expressed gratitude to the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) under UNEP for its pivotal support in advancing SLCP mitigation and agroecological innovations across Africa. The CCAC’s involvement underscores the global commitment to achieving climate goals through localized solutions.
Commitments to Action
The workshop concluded with pledges from local government officials and community representatives to prioritize agroecology in policy and practice. Mr. Gabriel announced plans to expand farmer training programs and engage policymakers to support agroecological transitions at the national level.
A farmer representative from Chamwino expressed optimism about the future, stating, “This workshop has shown us that sustainable farming is not only possible but necessary. We are ready to embrace these practices.”

A Path Towards a Sustainable Future
The ACE4ES Consortium plans to replicate such engagements across Africa, fostering regional collaboration to address climate change and improve food systems. Tanzania’s leadership in adopting agroecology and circular economy practices is expected to inspire other nations in their journey toward sustainability.