NEMC to review environmental compliance

DAR ES SALAAM – The National Environment Management Council (NEMC) has embarked on reviewing all projects that have been issued with Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Environmental Audit (EA) certificates to ensure they comply with the legal requirements.

NEMC’s Acting Director of Compliance and Enforcement, Mr. Hamadi Taimuru, told reporters in Dar es Salaam that the Council will review environmental compliance to all projects as per the law.

He said there have been reports following the Council’s assessment that some projects failed to comply with the requirements it issued. “This is alarming. These conditions are crucial for maintaining environmental protection during and after project implementation,” he said.

“We have developed a strategy to individually inspect and verify compliance with EIA certificate requirements to ensure our environment remains clean and safe. This will also ensure that the public lives in a healthy environment and that their activities can proceed smoothly,” the Compliance Director said.

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Mr. Taimuru emphasized the importance of self-assessment to all investors on the area of environmental protection. He urged entities to submit their reports to the Council for review and validation annually.

NEMC was of the view that some investors have been straightforward in ensuring environment protection compliance by submitting their reports as per the law.

NEMC’s Communications and Public Relations Manager, Irene John, reiterated the Council’s commitment to providing public education on the importance of conducting Environmental Impact Assessments before starting any development project.

She urged that the process is vital for the sustainability of the country and the people. “This will ensure Tanzania remains safe for tourists, residents, wildlife, and future generations,” she added.