Plastic Waste

Unmasking the Impact of Plastic Waste on Tanzania’s Oceans

Blue Oceans is a powerful multimedia campaign by the Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete Foundation (JMKF) that blends 3D animations and documentary storytelling to raise awareness on the devastating impact of plastic pollution on Tanzania’s marine ecosystems. With engaging narratives, youth-focused outreach, and community-driven action, the initiative aims to transform behavior, amplify advocacy, and protect the future of our oceans.

Collection of waste from the beach

The Problem

Tanzania generated 315,000 tonnes of plastic waste in 2018 alone.

  • Over 29,000 tonnes leaked into rivers, lakes, and oceans.
  • Only 4% of plastic is recycled nationally, and 95% is mismanaged.
  • Marine life like turtles, dolphins, and seabirds are dying from ingestion and entanglement.
  • · Microplastics are infiltrating the food chain — risking both marine and human health.

The Approach: Education Meets Storytelling

Using both 3D animation and live-action documentary, Blue Oceans tells stories that inspire, educate, and mobilize. From coastal towns to global platforms like the UN General Assembly, our stories aim to shift hearts and minds.

Featured Storylines:

  • BahariMania (Ocean Mania) animation follows Anzi, a young marine scientist, in a fictional battle against the Plastic King and his army — blending science fiction with a powerful environmental message.
  • Blue Oceans documentary that showcases the impact of plastics on the fishing villages, coastal communities and toursim.

Our Impact So Far – BahariMania

  • Reached over 4586 students in 44 schools across Dar es Salaam, Pwani and Tabora.
  • Dissemination through 100 regional buses, reaching over 59,500 people.
  • Organized 18 beach cleanups, with 1192 students and community people taking place.
  • Won Best Short Film at the Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF) in 2024.
  • Showcased at events in Germany, Azerbaijan, South Africa, Zanzibar, and Mainland Tanzania.

Our Dissemination Plan

Join the movement and partner with us: We aim to reach:

  • 5,000 secondary and university students
  • 100 regional buses across Tanzania
  • 2 million people via national TV
  • 100,000 people via social media
  • Global audiences through UN & COP presentations

Why Partner with Blue Oceans?

Sponsor the blue oceans dissemination – to reach more communities!

  • Align your brand with climate responsibility, youth empowerment, and innovation.
  • Amplify your social impact with a high-impact, award-winning initiative.
  • Contribute to lasting change by supporting behavior change campaigns, clean-up actions, and school programs.

Latest News