NEMC Central Zone inspects 603 investment projects in seven months
What you need to know:
- The Central Zone office registered 24 complaints, of which 14 (58%) were noise-related, while the remaining 10 concerned environmental pollution and degradation in Dodoma, Singida, and Iringa.
Dodoma. The National Environmental Management Council (NEMC), Central Zone, has inspected and visited 603 investment projects across Dodoma, Iringa, and Singida regions between July 2024 and January 2025, representing 75% of the annual target for the 2024/25 financial year.
Speaking yesterday, Central Zone Acting Manager Novatus Mushi outlined the council’s activities during the period. He noted that among the inspected projects were six strategic initiatives, which underwent compliance assessments under environmental laws.
These include the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), the Government City in Mtumba, the Dodoma Ring Road, BBT agricultural projects, the Farkwa Water Dam, and the Msalato International Airport.
Regarding Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), the office registered 105 development projects, of which 51 were reviewed and submitted for environmental certification. Out of these, 30 projects—equivalent to 59%—were issued with environmental certificates.
On mining activities, Mushi highlighted the increased demand for construction minerals in government and private projects in Dodoma, leading to extensive mineral extraction, which poses risks to both the environment and communities.
He noted that while mining contributes to the local economy, it also presents environmental and health challenges, including fatalities among people and livestock.
In response, NEMC has conducted inspections in Dodoma and its outskirts to mitigate environmental damage. Similarly, in Singida, the council—working with the research directorate under the Mercury Reduction Project—has overseen the rehabilitation of degraded gold mining sites in Murumbi village, Mangonyi ward, Ikungi district. Over 96 pits have been filled.
Mushi also addressed noise pollution, revealing that 58% of complaints received and handled between July and December 2024 were linked to entertainment venues, industries, and places of worship.
The Central Zone office registered 24 complaints, of which 14 (58%) were noise-related, while the remaining 10 concerned environmental pollution and degradation in Dodoma, Singida, and Iringa.
He noted that noise levels in Dodoma have risen due to rapid economic activity, prompting NEMC to assess high-risk areas and recommend effective management strategies.
