ZEMA Reports Increase in Environmental Assessments
The Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) has reported a significant increase in environmental assessments, with the Environmental Assessment Committee (EAC) evaluating 125 projects worth US$563 million in August alone.
Mining and mineral processing projects topped the list with 64 projects, followed by infrastructure development (22 projects) and energy (21 projects).
Notably, the manufacturing and processing sector led in investment value, totaling US$347 million from 16 projects. The energy sector followed with US$147 million, while mining and mineral processing came in third with US$38 million.
In response to the energy crisis, ZEMA approved four solar power projects with a combined capacity of 100 MW and the construction of two power transmission lines by ZESCO Limited.
From January to August 2024, ZEMA processed 816 projects, a notable increase from 642 projects during the same period in 2023. Approved projects for this year have accumulated a total investment of US$4.25 billion, up from US$2.5 billion last year.
In response to the rising demand for environmental services, ZEMA plans to open new offices in Central and Luapula Provinces and has recruited Honorary Inspectors to bolster compliance monitoring.
The agency has also digitized its processes through the e-ZEMA and Government Service Bus (GSB) online platforms.
ZEMA encourages developers to engage in self-regulation and environmental audits and calls on the public to report any environmental concerns.
This is in a statement issued by Eng. Godfrey Mwiinga, Director General, Zambia Environmental Management Agency.
