DAR ES SALAAM, April 29 (Xinhua) -- Tanzania has recorded significant progress in reducing plastic pollution, with the production and importation of banned plastic bags falling by 95 percent since the enforcement of a nationwide ban in 2019, a senior government official said Wednesday.

Reuben Kwagilwa, deputy minister of state in the Vice-President's Office responsible for Union Affairs and Environment, told the Parliament in Dodoma that the measure has contributed to a significant reduction in plastic waste across the country.

He said public awareness of the harmful effects of plastic bags has risen sharply, from below 40 percent in 2018 to over 85 percent in 2026, reflecting the impact of sustained government campaigns.

Kwagilwa added that plastic waste along ocean and lake shores has decreased by approximately 60 percent, mitigating risks to marine life.

He also noted that the cost of clearing blocked drainage systems has dropped by 30 to 40 percent, as plastic bags have been a major cause of blockages.

He further stated the government is strengthening recycling initiatives and plans to establish large waste disposal sites integrated with recycling industries in major cities, including Dar es Salaam. ■