The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has issued a strict deadline for businesses with pending license applications.
In a notice on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, the Authority directed applicants to complete all pending reviews by September 30, 2025. The directive applies to applications submitted before August 1, 2025.
Record of Decision
NEMA explained that the two-week window is necessary to prepare a Record of Decision. This is the statement issued after reviewing a project’s Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). It confirms whether a project has been approved or rejected.
“Clients with pending applications must contact the NEMA office where they submitted documents to resolve all technical review issues,” the Authority stated.
Failure to act means decisions will be made based only on existing documents and records. Unsuccessful applicants will then have to submit fresh applications under the Environmental Management and Coordination Act (EMCA), Cap 387.
Link to New Digital Systems
The notice comes just two months after NEMA launched its new digital systems. In July, the Authority rolled out the Integrated Environment Information Management System (ENVIS) and the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) System.
These platforms were created to make services accessible online, improve coordination with other agencies, and enable real-time information sharing.
Criticism from Stakeholders
Despite these upgrades, the systems have faced criticism. Environmentalists, led by the Environmental Institute of Kenya, argued that the rollout lacked public participation. They acknowledged that digitization is useful but insisted consultation was vital to reduce bureaucracy and improve transparency.
The Way Forward
With the September 30 deadline fast approaching, businesses must act quickly. Those that fail to comply risk losing their applications and starting the process all over again.
