By Our Reporter
The National Environment Management Council (NEMC) has proposed legal reforms to transform it into a National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), in a move aimed at strengthening environmental enforcement while making regulatory processes more supportive of business and investment.
The proposal was presented on October 21, 2026, during a meeting with Parliament’s Standing Committees on Constitution and Legal Affairs and Water and Environment in Dodoma, where discussions also focused on solid waste management and economic opportunities from recycling and waste processing.
NEMC Director General Immaculate Sware Semesi said the proposed changes would strengthen the institution’s legal powers and align its operations with Tanzania’s Development Vision 2050, which emphasises sustainable economic growth.
She said the reforms were intended to position the institution as an enabler of investment rather than an obstacle, particularly by improving processes for investors seeking environmental approvals and permits while maintaining legal requirements for environmental protection.
“The proposed changes aim to strengthen the institution so that it can fulfil its responsibilities while facilitating business and investment,” the presentation indicated.
The discussions also highlighted the need to improve solid waste management to protect public health and the environment, while treating waste as a potential economic resource.
Through recycling and processing, waste can create business opportunities, support employment and reduce the environmental problems associated with poor disposal practices.
The proposed transformation of NEMC into NEMA would require amendments to the relevant laws to strengthen the institutional framework for environmental management and control.
The council said the changes would also help streamline business and investment processes without compromising environmental safeguards.
The discussions come as Tanzania seeks to expand economic activity while addressing environmental pressures associated with urban growth, waste generation and industrial development.
Effective waste management remains important for local authorities and communities, particularly in managing the collection, treatment and disposal of solid waste and reducing risks to public health.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Minister in the Vice President’s Office responsible for Environment Reuben Kwagilwa, members of the two parliamentary committees and NEMC management.
It was chaired by John Kiswaga, chairperson of Parliament’s Standing Committee on Water and Environment.
The committees discussed proposals to improve Tanzania’s environmental management framework, balancing public health protection, investment facilitation and sustainable development.