NEMC push for EIAs to investors
DAR ES SALAAM – The National Environment Management Council (NEMC) has urged all stakeholders in the country to conduct Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) before commencing any development project.
NEMC issued the call in Dar es Salaam on Tuesday highlighting that the process is subject to the Environmental Management Act of 2004 which seeks, among other things, to prevent potential environmental damages.
Gladness Malisa, Environmental Management Officer at NEMC told a press conference that EIAs are conducted to locate potential environmental impacts that may arise during the implementation of a project in a specific area.
“The main goal is to identify potential impacts that could result from such project operations before they begin. This can help consider areas for mitigation during early stages and prevent harm to the environment and community at large” she said.
According to NEMC the Environmental Impact Assessment is for all investors, including the government institutions.
“Anyone implementing a development project, including the government, individuals, companies, institutions, or organizations, is legally required to conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment before starting such project,” emphasized Ms. Gladness.
READ: NEMC to review environmental compliance
Acting Director of the Environmental Impact Assessment Directorate, Ms. Edika Masisi, told reporters that the Council does not intend to hinder or create obstacles for investors in development activities.
However, it is essential to ensure that all development activities comply with legislation governing environmental conservation for the benefit of both current and future generations.
NEMC called on investors who have not registered their projects for Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and those who have registered but have not completed their assessment to ensure they complete the assessment prior commencement. For those who commenced operations before conducting EIA are required to undertake Environmental Audit.
By August, 2024, legal measures will be instituted to non-compliant for violating the law.
