In late 2024, Tanzania has ammended its Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Audit Regulations for the second time since 2005 – and climate change is at the heart of these amendments. The government’s move reflects Tanzania’s high vulnerability to climate change [ranked among the most vulnerable countries with low readiness to cope] and a commitment to sustainable development. By integrating climate considerations directly into EIA requirements, these regulatory changes aim to ensure that new projects are not only environmentally sound but also resilient to climate impacts. This update is significant for businesses, developers, and investors in Tanzania: it aligns environmental governance with global climate priorities and the country’s own 2021 National Environmental Policy, signaling that climate risks and opportunities must now be factored into every major project.

Purpose and Significance of the 2024 Changes

The 2024 amendments serve to mainstream climate change into Tanzania’s environmental management framework. Prior to this, EIA regulations from 2005 (last amended in 2018) had no explicit requirements to consider climate change. The new rules correct that gap, ensuring that projects are planned with future climate realities in mind. By doing so, Tanzania is strengthening its compliance with international climate agreements (like the Paris Agreement) and safeguarding its long-term development. The purpose of these changes is clear: to foster sustainable growth without compromising the environment, by baking climate resilience and mitigation into the DNA of project planning. This is a proactive step that elevates EIA from a procedural hurdle to a forward-looking tool for risk management and sustainability.

Transforming the flood-prone Msimbazi Basin through integrated, climate-resilient planning

The significance of the 2024 changes extends beyond bureaucracy – it’s about resilience and investor confidence. Projects that account for climate risks (e.g. extreme weather, shifting rainfall patterns) are less likely to face disruptions or costly damages down the line. For a country facing frequent droughts and floods, this is crucial. It also means Tanzania’s regulatory environment is catching up with global best practices, which can make Tanzanian projects more attractive to international investors focused on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria. In short, these changes underscore that climate change is now a core consideration in Tanzanian development, not an afterthought.

Key Climate-Related Additions in the 2024 EIA Amendments

The amended regulations introduce several specific requirements to integrate climate change into the EIA process. Below are the key climate-related additions developers and stakeholders should know:

• New Climate Terminology Defined: The law now includes definitions for “climate change adaptation,” “climate change mitigation,” and “climate resilient”. For example, climate change adaptation is defined as “the process of adjusting to the current and expected effect of climate change,” and climate change mitigation as actions that reduce or limit greenhouse gas emissions. By defining these terms, the regulations set a clear context for what is expected in reports and plans.
• Climate Consideration in Decision-Making: Environmental decision-makers must consider potential climate impacts and vulnerability assessments at every step of project approval. The amendments to Regulation 12 require authorities to ensure climate impacts are evaluated and to “promote development of climate resilient infrastructure… taking into consideration the project viability” under future climate scenarios. Moreover, a new Regulation 15A explicitly states that at “each stage of development, programs or projects shall take into consideration climate impacts and vulnerability assessments”. In practice, this means no project gets a green light without accounting for how it may be affected by or contribute to climate change.
• EIA Reports Must Address Climate Risks: The content requirements for EIA studies now embed climate change throughout. Regulation 18 has been expanded so that an EIA report must include sections on climate change mitigation and adaptation alongside the traditional environmental and social analysis. Specifically, reports need to discuss how the project will mitigate climate change or adapt to it, assess the “positive or negative effect of the project on climate mitigation” (does the project help cut emissions or make it worse?), evaluate “the vulnerability of the project to the impact of climate change”, and crucially, provide a “climate adaptation plan” for the project. This adaptation plan should propose measures to eliminate or minimize adverse climate impacts on the project, complete with cost estimates, timelines, and responsibilities for implementing these measures. In essence, project proponents must show not only that they will protect the environment, but also that the environment (and climate) will not undo their project.
• New Category for Climate-Sensitive Projects: A “Type C” project category has been introduced for projects requiring a dedicated climate impact and vulnerability assessment. This category covers large-scale and “climate relevant projects, including all investment projects and policies related to energy, transport, water, agriculture, forestry and land-use planning and management”. If your project falls into these sectors or is otherwise climate-sensitive, it may be classified as Type C – triggering a requirement for a specialized climate risk assessment as part of the EIA. This is a new layer of scrutiny ensuring that big projects with major climate footprints or exposure are evaluated more rigorously.
• Screening for Disaster Risk: The screening criteria (Second Schedule) now explicitly ask whether a proposed project could “increase the likelihood or the impact of natural disasters”. This means, for instance, if a development might worsen flooding or deforestation (thus amplifying droughts), regulators will flag it early for deeper assessment. Projects will need to demonstrate how they avoid exacerbating climate-related disasters.
• Climate-Integrated Management and Monitoring: The regulations weave climate into project management plans and monitoring. Environmental Management Plans (EMP) and monitoring programs – the tools that ensure compliance during project implementation – must now include climate change mitigation and adaptation actions. Furthermore, during a project’s lifespan, developers are required to periodically assess and review the project’s viability in light of climate change effects. In practical terms, even after an EIA is approved and a project is underway, there is an ongoing duty to monitor how climate trends (say, increasing temperatures or more intense storms) might impact the project’s operations and sustainability. This adaptive management approach pushes companies to remain vigilant and responsive to climate changes over time, not just at the planning stage.

All these additions make the 2024 EIA regulations a comprehensive climate-proofing framework. From start to finish, climate change considerations are embedded – a strong signal that Tanzania is aligning environmental regulation with the realities of climate risk and global best practices in sustainable project development.

Practical Implications for Developers and Investors

For developers and investors, the 2024 regulatory changes are more than just legal formalities; they have tangible impacts on how projects are planned, financed, and executed in Tanzania:

• More Rigorous EIA Process: Preparing an EIA will now likely require additional expertise and effort. Project teams must incorporate climate scientists or climate data into their studies. Expect to conduct climate vulnerability assessments (especially if you’re in sectors like energy, infrastructure, agriculture, etc.) and to develop climate adaptation and mitigation strategies as part of your project design.
• Designing Resilient Projects: Practically, developers should start designing projects with climate resilience in mind from the outset. For example, if you’re planning a coastal investment or a large agricultural venture, you’ll need to consider future sea-level rise or shifting rainfall patterns in your design and location choices. The new rules enforce this by requiring evidence of climate consideration, but it also simply makes good business sense.
• Impact on Investment and Financing: Investors are increasingly conscious of climate risks and ESG criteria. These regulatory changes can actually boost investor confidence in Tanzanian projects. Knowing that a project has passed a climate-inclusive EIA means many climate-related risks have been evaluated and mitigated. This can make it easier to secure funding or insurance for the project. International lenders, in particular, often require climate risk assessments – now those are mandated by law for significant projects, aligning regulatory compliance with investor expectations. Additionally, projects that include strong climate mitigation components (like renewable energy use, energy efficiency, or carbon sequestration efforts) might tap into climate finance opportunities or carbon credit markets, turning compliance into a financial positive.

Climate-informed design reduces disruption and lifetime costs

In summary, while the 2024 EIA amendments introduce new responsibilities for project proponents, they also provide a framework for sustainable success. Developers and investors who embrace these changes will not only stay on the right side of the law but also enhance their projects’ robustness and appeal in an era where climate-savvy business is the smart business.

How Tansheq Can Help Clients Navigate and Benefit from the Updates

Tansheq has been closely monitoring the regulatory changes and is fully equipped to help clients comply with the 2024 EIA and Audit Regulations – and even turn them into an advantage. Here’s how we support our clients in this new landscape:

• Expert Guidance on Compliance: Our team at Tansheq includes seasoned environmental experts, EIA practitioners, and climate specialists who understand the fine print of the amended regulations. We help you identify which new rules apply to your project – for instance, determining if your project falls under the new Type C category requiring a climate vulnerability assessment – and guide you through fulfilling each requirement. From completing the proper screening checklists (ensuring your project won’t trigger issues like natural disaster risks) to preparing the documents for EIA submission, we’ve got you covered with technical clarity.
• Climate Risk Assessment & Adaptation Planning: Tansheq has developed tools and methodologies for conducting climate impact and vulnerability assessments tailored to Tanzanian conditions. We will work with you to analyze how projected climate scenarios (such as increased temperature, rainfall variability, or extreme events) could affect your specific project. Using this analysis, we craft robust Climate Adaptation Plans as required by the new regulations, outlining concrete measures your project can take to remain resilient (e.g. flood defenses, drought-resistant technologies, emergency response plans). Our plans are not just about compliance – they are about ensuring your investment thrives in the long run, despite climate challenges.
• Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Strategies: In line with the climate change mitigation focus of the amendments, Tansheq helps quantify your project’s carbon footprint and develop strategies to reduce it. Whether it’s optimizing energy use, integrating renewable energy, or conservation offsets, we align your project with Tanzania’s low-carbon development goals. This not only meets regulatory expectations to include mitigation in the EIA, but can also enhance your corporate sustainability profile – a win-win for compliance and reputation.
• Seamless EIA Report Preparation: As a client-focused consultancy, we excel at producing comprehensive EIA reports that satisfy all the new content requirements. Our reports clearly address each item that regulators will look for – from the detailed climate adaptation plan to the assessment of the project’s effect on national climate targets. We understand the promotional tone needed when communicating positive project aspects, and we ensure that the language in the report is both technically sound and accessible to decision-makers. The result is an EIA document that instills confidence in regulators and stakeholders alike.
• Capacity Building and Ongoing Support: Compliance doesn’t end with the EIA approval, and neither does Tansheq’s support. We offer training for your project team on implementing the Environmental and Social Monitoring Plan with its new climate components, so that during project implementation you continue to meet the obligations (like the rolling climate viability assessments). Our consultants can assist in periodic reviews and audits, helping you adjust your strategies if climate impacts evolve. Essentially, we act as your partners throughout the project life cycle, ensuring you consistently benefit from best practices in environmental and climate risk management.

At Tansheq, we don’t view the 2024 regulatory changes as just another box to tick – we see them as an opportunity for our clients to innovate and lead in sustainable development. By working with us, you leverage our deep understanding of local regulations and global climate standards, which means your project will not only comply but stand out as a model of environmental responsibility.

 SOURCE BY: TANSHEQ LIMITED

Celebrating 15 years of TANSHEQ LIMITED,  The future is our to build together

Introduction

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles have become critical for businesses worldwide. In Tanzania, the adoption of ESG frameworks is gaining momentum as industries seek to align with global sustainability standards while ensuring regulatory compliance and long-term profitability. Companies that integrate ESG into their operations benefit from enhanced reputation, reduced risks, and access to investment opportunities. However, those that neglect ESG considerations may face reputational damage, financial losses, and regulatory penalties.

Tansheq, a leading consulting firm in Tanzania, provides comprehensive ESG services to help businesses navigate these challenges. By offering expert guidance on environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and corporate governance, Tansheq enables businesses to operate responsibly while achieving their strategic goals.

Environmental Factors

Tanzania’s natural resources, including its forests, water bodies, and mineral reserves, are under increasing pressure due to industrialization, deforestation, and climate change. Companies operating in sectors such as mining, agriculture, and energy must adopt responsible environmental policies to minimize their ecological footprint.

A notable example of environmental responsibility in Tanzania is the cement industry, which is a significant contributor to carbon emissions. Companies like Twiga Cement and Tanga Cement have taken steps to reduce their carbon footprint by investing in alternative fuels and energy-efficient technologies. These efforts demonstrate how businesses can balance industrial growth with environmental sustainability.

Tansheq supports businesses in achieving environmental sustainability by conducting Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA) for industrial projects. The firm also develops carbon reduction strategies, conducts climate risk assessments, and provides sustainable resource management solutions tailored to the needs of industries operating in sensitive ecological zones.

Social Factors

A company’s relationship with its employees, communities, and customers plays a crucial role in its long-term success. Issues such as labor rights, workplace safety, diversity, and community engagement significantly influence a company’s sustainability and public perception.

One inspiring example of social impact in Tanzania is the Solar Mamas Initiative in Zanzibar. This program trains rural women as solar engineers, equipping them with the skills to install and maintain solar energy systems in off-grid communities. This initiative not only promotes clean energy adoption but also fosters gender empowerment and economic independence for women.

Tansheq assists businesses in developing and implementing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs that benefit local communities. The firm also conducts health and safety audits to improve workplace conditions and reduce accidents. Furthermore, Tansheq facilitates stakeholder engagement and community consultations to ensure that industrial projects consider the needs and concerns of affected communities.

Governance Factors

Strong corporate governance structures are essential for ensuring transparency, accountability, and ethical decision-making. Companies that lack effective governance policies risk exposure to corruption, financial mismanagement, and reputational damage.

The Bank of Tanzania has been proactive in strengthening corporate governance within the banking sector by mandating improved risk management and anti-corruption measures. These reforms have enhanced financial stability and investor confidence in the country’s banking institutions.

Tansheq provides businesses with corporate governance frameworks that align with both Tanzanian and international standards. The firm conducts ESG compliance audits to help companies meet regulatory requirements and trains executives and management teams on ethical leadership and anti-corruption strategies. Through these services, Tansheq empowers businesses to operate with integrity and maintain stakeholder trust.

Challenges and Opportunities in ESG Adoption

Despite the benefits of ESG adoption, businesses in Tanzania face several challenges. One major challenge is regulatory uncertainty, as many companies struggle to keep up with evolving ESG laws and standards. Financial constraints also hinder ESG implementation, as some businesses perceive sustainability initiatives as costly investments. Additionally, resistance to change remains a barrier, with many organizations lacking awareness of ESG benefits or hesitating to adopt new policies.

However, the growing emphasis on ESG presents numerous opportunities for businesses in Tanzania. Companies that align with ESG principles are more likely to attract investment from international financial institutions and socially responsible investors. Additionally, ESG-compliant businesses gain a competitive advantage by building trust with customers, regulators, and other stakeholders. Implementing sustainable practices can also lead to long-term cost savings through energy efficiency, waste reduction, and improved resource management.

Conclusion

As Tanzania moves toward a more sustainable economy, ESG compliance is no longer optional—it is a necessity. Companies that integrate environmental, social, and governance factors into their business models will be better positioned for growth and resilience in an increasingly competitive and regulated market.

Tansheq is at the forefront of ESG consulting in Tanzania, helping businesses navigate the complexities of sustainability and corporate responsibility. By providing expert guidance on environmental management, social impact assessments, and governance frameworks, Tansheq ensures that businesses not only comply with regulatory requirements but also contribute positively to society and the environment.

For companies looking to enhance their ESG performance, partnering with Tansheq is the first step toward building a sustainable and responsible enterprise.

SOURCE BY: Tansheq Limited

Tansheq Limited Achieves Approval for Local Content Plan by the Mining Commission

We are thrilled to announce that Tansheq Limited has received official approval for our Local Content Plan from the Mining Commission under the Ministry of Minerals of Tanzania. This milestone reflects our unwavering commitment to supporting Tanzania's local industries and communities in alignment with the Mining (Local Content) Regulations, 2018.

This approval is a testament to our dedication to fostering partnerships that prioritize local talent, suppliers, and resources. It underscores our role as a responsible partner in Tanzania's development. As stipulated, the approved plan will be implemented effectively and monitored through quarterly reports and annual Local Content Performance Reports, ensuring compliance and transparency.

At Tansheq, we are proud to contribute to the sustainable growth of the mining sector while upholding the regulations that safeguard local participation and national development goals. Together, we are building a brighter, more inclusive future for Tanzania.

For inquiries or partnerships, contact us at

The Environmental Management (Environmental Performance Bond) Regulations of 2024, introduced under Tanzania’s Environmental Management Act, provide a robust framework to ensure responsible environmental stewardship across numerous sectors. These regulations require developers to deposit an Environmental Performance Bond (EPB) as a financial guarantee for responsible project closure, site rehabilitation, and ecosystem restoration. By mandating these bonds, the regulations aim to secure compliance with environmental standards, promote sustainable practices, and mitigate potential adverse impacts from large-scale projects.

Under these regulations, developers across various sectors are required to prepare detailed decommissioning plans that address site-specific risks, impact assessments, and closure methodologies. These decommissioning plans must include clear strategies for ecosystem restoration, risk management, post-closure monitoring, and emergency closure if needed. Registered environmental experts are responsible for preparing these plans, ensuring they meet stringent environmental standards and align with the unique characteristics of each project. The National Environment Management Council (NEMC), along with the Project Decommissioning Committee, oversees the approval of these plans, conducts regular reassessments of the bond, and ensures that developers adhere to the guidelines throughout the project lifecycle.

The First Schedule of the EPB regulations outlines specific sectors and project types required to deposit an EPB. In the Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries sectors, large-scale agricultural developments, commercial forestry operations, and fisheries projects such as aquaculture and artificial farming fall under these guidelines. The Energy sector, covering oil and gas exploration, large renewable energy installations, and hydroelectric power plants, also faces EPB requirements to mitigate environmental risks inherent to these high-impact projects. The Manufacturing and Processing sector includes chemical plants, cement factories, textile industries, and food processing plants, all of which pose unique environmental challenges that must be managed responsibly.

Additionally, the Mining and Quarrying sector, encompassing large-scale mining operations and quarrying activities, must ensure the safe closure of sites and restoration of affected land areas. Infrastructure Development projects like highways, railways, and port facilities are also included, given their potential to disrupt natural ecosystems and local communities. For Waste Management projects, such as landfills, hazardous waste treatment, and incineration facilities, the EPB ensures that these facilities operate within strict environmental guidelines and address post-closure impacts effectively.

Other sectors specified in the First Schedule include Water Resources Development for large-scale irrigation and dam projects, and Tourism and Recreational Development, which covers environmentally sensitive projects like hotels near protected areas, golf courses, and theme parks. The Real Estate Development sector, specifically large housing estates and commercial complexes, is also subject to these regulations to safeguard urban ecosystems. Transportationprojects, such as airports and bus terminals, Telecommunications towers and data centers, and Health Facilitiesincluding hospitals and medical waste treatment facilities, all require careful environmental planning and EPBs to mitigate risks associated with their operations and closures.

The Environmental Performance Bond Regulations provide for confiscation of the bond in cases of non-compliance, ensuring that funds are available to restore affected environments should a developer fail to meet regulatory standards. Conversely, developers who adhere to approved decommissioning and monitoring protocols are eligible for a return of their bond, thereby incentivizing compliance and promoting long-term environmental responsibility. These regulations are designed not only to enforce environmental standards but to encourage industries to integrate sustainable practices from project inception through to closure, fostering a culture of environmental accountability across Tanzania’s industrial landscape.

At Tansheq, we recognize the importance of these regulations and are committed to helping businesses understand and meet these environmental requirements. Our team assists developers in preparing and implementing their decommissioning plans, conducting risk assessments, and ensuring compliance with the EPB regulations. By working together, we can build a more sustainable future for Tanzania, promoting economic growth while protecting the country’s natural resources and ecosystems for generations to come. For further guidance on how Tansheq can support your compliance with these regulations, please reach out to us through contacts in our website.

New Environmental Compliance Fees for Oil and Gas Sector: 2021 vs. 2024

In an effort to strengthen environmental management in Tanzania, the government introduced key updates to the Environmental Management (Fees and Charges) Regulations in 2024. These changes affect various industries, including oil and gas, which now face new and increased fees for compliance monitoring and audit. Below is a comprehensive overview of the fees applicable to the oil and gas sector, comparing the 2021 regulations with the 2024 amendments.

Key Fee Changes in the Oil and Gas Sector

The following table outlines the applicable fees for different activities within the oil and gas industry:

Key Insights:

• New Fees Introduced: Several new fees have been introduced in 2024, particularly for environmental compliance related to wells and pipelines. For example, off-production wells now face a TZS 10,000,000 fee, while production wells are subject to a TZS 50,000,000 fee.
• Significant Fee Increases: The fee for exploration licenses has increased to TZS 100,000,000 per year, up from no specified amount in the 2021 regulations. Additionally, processing facility fees have increased significantly from TZS 10,500,000 to TZS 50,000,000.
• Pipeline Fees Restructured: Instead of a flat fee, the 2024 regulations introduced per-kilometer fees for gathering, transmission, distribution, and service pipelines, making costs more dynamic depending on the length of the infrastructure.

What These Changes Mean for Oil and Gas Companies

These updated fees place greater financial responsibility on oil and gas operators in Tanzania, particularly in areas related to environmental compliance. Companies must now account for the increased costs during the exploration, development, and production phases of oil and gas operations. Proper environmental monitoring and audit strategies will be crucial to maintaining regulatory compliance and avoiding penalties.

This also presents an opportunity for companies to review their operational budgets and plan ahead for these new financial obligations.

About Tansheq: Your Partner in Environmental Compliance

Tansheq, a leading engineering and environmental consulting firm in Tanzania, specializes in helping oil and gas companies navigate complex regulatory landscapes. With extensive experience in the energy sector, Tansheq offers comprehensive services designed to ensure compliance with the latest environmental regulations, including:

• Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA): Assisting with the preparation and submission of EIA reports, ensuring adherence to national and international standards.
• Environmental Compliance Monitoring and Audit: Offering ongoing monitoring services to help companies meet the new environmental compliance fees and regulations.
• Pipeline Infrastructure Consulting: Providing technical expertise in pipeline construction and management, ensuring that all infrastructure meets environmental and safety standards.
• Permitting and Licensing Support: Helping businesses navigate the process of obtaining necessary exploration licenses and environmental permits, minimizing delays and ensuring smooth operations.

With the recent changes in the regulatory framework, Tansheq is committed to supporting the oil and gas sector in meeting their environmental obligations while driving sustainable growth. Whether you need assistance with compliance audits, pipeline management, or environmental impact assessments, Tansheq is your trusted partner for engineering solutions.

Contact us today to find out how we can help your business stay compliant with the latest environmental regulations while optimizing your operations for success.

The President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, has laid the foundation stone for the construction of the Rukwa Region Girls' Secondary School at a ceremony held in Mtindilo Laela Village on July 17, 2024. This school is one of 26 girls' secondary schools planned for construction across mainland Tanzania as part of the Secondary Education Quality Improvement Project (SEQUIP). Tansheq played a crucial role in reviewing the designs to ensure accessibility for people with disabilities, as well as conducting Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA) and overseeing construction supervision.

Katibu Mkuu Ofisi ya Waziri Mkuu (Sera,Bunge na Uratibu) Dkt. Jim Yonazi amewataka wataalamu waelekezi kutoka Kamapuni za DMG na TANSHEQ walioshinda zabuni ya Mkataba wa Upembuzi Yakinifu wa Ununuzi wa Meli za uvuvi wa Bahari Kuu na Ujenzi wa Viwanda vya Kuchakata Samaki,kukamilisha upembuzi kwa wakati ili Serikali ianze ujenzi wa meli katika Bahari Kuu na Viwanda vya kuchakata samaki.

CEO wa Tansheq Limited (Lusako Raphael Mwanjali) na Katibu Mkuu Mh. Jim Yonazi wakitia saini ya mkataba wa kufanya Thathimini ya Athari za Kimazingira na Kijamii kwa ajili ya ununuzi wa meli za uvuvi zitakazotumika Zanzibar na Tanzania Bara

As we mark our 13th anniversary, Tansheq Management would like to thank all of our clients, partners, and employees. We also want to reassure you that we will continue to offer Innovative Solutions for Sustainability