Tanzania halts new construction permits along Lake Victoria shores ahead of El Nino rains

Tanzania's government has moved to restrict construction activity along the shores of Lake Victoria, directing that works aimed at expanding plots or creating additional land undergo a professional environmental assessment before they are allowed to proceed.

The directive was issued by the Deputy Minister of State in the Vice President's Office, Union and Environment, Reuben Kwagilwa, in Mwanza during a visit to assess the environmental situation and preparations to mitigate the effects of El Nino rains, according to the state-owned Daily News.

Kwagilwa said activities aimed at expanding plots or creating additional land through soil dumping must be subjected to a professional environmental assessment first. The measure targets land-reclamation and plot-extension works along the lake's shoreline.

During the visit, the deputy minister also inspected the Buhongwa landfill in Mwanza, where he questioned the management of hazardous chemicals generated from waste after identifying shortcomings in existing control procedures. He directed authorities to ensure that waste management practices comply with environmental and public health safety standards, particularly for communities living around the landfill.

Nyamagana District Commissioner Amina Makilagi urged the ministry to take professional and technical measures to protect the environment of Lake Victoria.