ZANZIBAR's Second Vice- President Ambassador Seif Ali Iddi has warned that the rate of environmental degradation was shocking, thus calling for collective responsibility to address the menace.

"We have to stop unnecessary felling of trees should we need to minimize risks caused by environment degradation," he said in Pemba while inaugurating a water project in Mkanyageni Constituency.

Ambassador Iddi said that cutting trees recklessly in areas surrounding water sources threatens natural vegetation in the Isles.

"Let us join efforts in protecting environment. We should plant trees. All people including leaders have important role to play to save Zanzibar," he added.

He thanked the Minister for Communication, Science and Technology Prof Makame Mbarawa for supporting the 120.5m/- water project that benefits more than 21,800 residents of Mkanyageni, Chokocho,Michenzani, Kisiwa Panza and Makoongwe villages in South Pemba.