Analyzing the Effectiveness of Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAS) in Selected Infrastructure Development Projects in Lusaka District, Zambia

Abstract

This study evaluates the effectiveness of Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) in promoting sustainable infrastructure development in Lusaka District, Zambia, amid rapid urbanization. Using a mixed-methods approach, it assesses EIA report quality, stakeholder engagement, mitigation measures, and regulatory oversight in 30 infrastructure projects (2010–2024). Findings show 60% of stakeholders found EIAs effective in identifying risks like deforestation and water pollution, but 40% noted shortcomings, including inadequate baseline data and cumulative impact analysis. While 70% of reports complied with Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) guidelines, only half believed post-implementation monitoring was effective due to resource constraints. Stakeholder engagement was seen as superficial, with limited influence on decisions. A weak positive correlation was found between resource allocation for engagement and regulation enforcement (r = 0.18). Mitigation measures were deemed ineffective by 65% due to technical and funding gaps, with minimal impact on EIA effectiveness (β = 0.1515, p = 0.356). The study concludes that while EIAs have contributed to environmental protection, regulatory weaknesses, insufficient support, and limited stakeholder participation hinder their effectiveness. Strengthening ZEMA, increasing financial and technical support, and improving stakeholder engagements are recommended to enhance EIA practices and sustainable development in Zambia. Keywords: Environmental Impact Assessment, sustainable development, regulatory oversight, stakeholder engagement, mitigation measures, Lusaka, Zambia