ZEMA Approves $10 Billion Worth of Projects in 2024, Mining Leads the Way
The Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) has approved 1,325 projects in 2024, with a total investment value of $10 billion, marking a significant rise from the 1,129 projects worth $7 billion approved in 2023.
In a statement issued on Friday, ZEMA Board Chairperson, Professor Lovejoy Malambo, revealed that mining projects led the approvals, accounting for 678 projects or 51% of the total.
“The Environmental Assessment Committee of ZEMA’s 5th Board of Directors approved 108 development projects during its 27th ordinary meeting held on December 27, 2024,” Malambo said.
The manufacturing sector followed with 217 projects (16%), energy with 196 projects (15%), and infrastructure with 163 projects (12%). Agriculture and tourism contributed 53 projects (4%) and 18 projects (2%), respectively.
Among energy initiatives, ZEMA approved 14 solar and two thermal electricity projects, collectively expected to generate 1,600 megawatts of power, a crucial contribution to alleviating Zambia’s ongoing energy challenges.
Professor Malambo commended developers for adhering to Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) requirements and implementing measures to mitigate environmental impacts.
“The Agency remains committed to the timely review of all developmental projects submitted in 2025 to facilitate implementation in an environmentally sound and sustainable manner,” Malambo added.
ZEMA also expressed appreciation to developers and the public for their contributions toward promoting sustainable development across various sectors.
