The Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) has given the green light to 115 development projects during its June 2025 Environmental Assessment Committee meeting, unlocking a total investment value of US$627 million. This major step underscores Zambia’s drive to accelerate infrastructure growth, strengthen healthcare systems, and improve transportation and industrial capacity.
In a statement released on Monday, ZEMA Corporate Affairs Manager Ruth Kamwi confirmed the approvals, highlighting that the Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) reviewed and endorsed cover a wide array of sectors. These include mining, energy, infrastructure, manufacturing, and agriculture—key pillars of Zambia’s long-term economic development strategy.
Among the high-impact projects approved is the proposed construction of a ZAMMSA Regional Medical Warehouse in Kabwe District. This facility is expected to play a crucial role in strengthening Zambia’s medical supply chain and improving health service delivery in the Central Province and surrounding areas.
Also receiving a green light is the planned upgrade of critical infrastructure at Mansa Airport. Valued at over K739 million, the project is aimed at modernizing the airport’s facilities, boosting regional connectivity, and enhancing safety and operational efficiency. This development is particularly significant for Luapula Province, where reliable air transport is essential for economic expansion and emergency response.
ZEMA emphasized that all approved projects had to meet rigorous environmental standards to ensure they align with sustainable development goals. By enforcing thorough Environmental Impact Assessments, the agency aims to mitigate environmental risks while supporting responsible economic growth.
“The Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA)’s 33rd Environmental Assessment Committee (EAC) June 2025 meeting of the Board of Directors has approved Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) for 115 developmental projects worth $627 million,” said Kamwi.
She added that ZEMA remains committed to safeguarding the environment while facilitating national development. The agency continues to strike a balance between progress and preservation, ensuring that environmental integrity is not compromised in the pursuit of economic advancement.
With this latest round of project approvals, Zambia is set to experience notable strides in job creation, infrastructure expansion, and improved public services—marking another chapter in the country’s push toward inclusive and sustainable growth.