ZEMA Approves 203 Development Projects worth $3.3 Billion
By Arnold Tutu
The Zambia Environmental Management Agency –ZEMA- has approved 203 development projects valued at $3.3 billion during its first and second Environmental Assessment Committee –EAC- meetings of 2025.
ZEMA Board Chairperson, Lovejoy Malambo says the approvals highlight ZEMA’s commitment to balancing environmental protection with economic development.
According to Professor Malambo, the mining and mineral processing sector accounted for the majority of the approvals, with 130 projects receiving the green light.
These include mineral exploration, construction, and operation of mineral processing plants, with Central Province emerging as the leading hub for mineral development.
He says given the increase in mining activities, ZEMA has tightened regulatory conditions for tailings storage facilities and waste management.
Professor Malambo says the new measures aim to prevent groundwater contamination, enhance emergency preparedness, and enforce stricter monitoring of stored waste.
The agency has urged all developers and facility operators to conduct regular self-compliance audits to prevent environmental risks and ensure adherence to sustainability standards.
Professor Malambo has reaffirmed ZEMA’s commitment to safeguarding the environment while supporting Zambia’s socio-economic growth, ensuring that all development projects align with national regulatory frameworks.
