Tanzania suspends construction permits along the shores of Lake Victoria heading to El Niño rains

MWANZA: THE Tanzania government has suspended the issuance of construction permits and other approvals involving the dumping of soil and other materials along the shores of Lake Victoria as part of efforts to address the environmental challenges facing the lake.

Deputy Minister of State in the Vice President’s Office, Union and Environment, Reuben Kwagilwa, issued the directive in Mwanza during a visit to assess the environmental situation and preparations to mitigate the effects of El Niño rains.

Kwagilwa said activities aimed at expanding plots or creating additional land through soil dumping must undergo a professional environmental assessment before they are allowed to proceed.

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During the visit, he also inspected the Buhongwa landfill in Mwanza, where he questioned the management of hazardous chemicals generated from waste after identifying shortcomings in the existing control procedures.

He directed authorities to ensure that waste management practices comply with environmental and public health safety standards, particularly for communities living around the landfill.

Meanwhile, Nyamagana District Commissioner Amina Makilagi urged the ministry to take professional and technical measures to protect the environment of Lake Victoria.