Zim Now Writer
The Environmental Management Agency has issued a warning to land developers constructing on wetlands without valid Environmental Impact Assessment certificates, stating that they will face prosecution.
Speaking ahead of World Wetlands Day on February 2, EMA spokesperson Amkela Sidange highlighted the vital role wetlands play in human and environmental sustainability.
Wetlands help prevent floods, droughts, and other disasters, support biodiversity and provide food and livelihoods to millions and store more carbon than any other ecosystem.
Sidange cited Section 113 of the Environmental Management Act (Cap 20:27) and Section 20 of Statutory Instrument (SI) 7 of 2007, which mandate the conservation of wetlands.
She emphasized: "No person shall, except with the express written authorization from EMA, reclaim or drain any wetland, or disturb any wetland by drilling or tunneling in a manner that harms or is likely to harm any wetland or adversely affect any animal or plant life therein."
Sidange warned against the dangers of wetland destruction, referencing Lake Chivero, where pollution—mainly from raw sewage—has led to severe health risks. She urged collective efforts to protect wetlands, particularly in Harare:
"If we work together to keep our wetlands reserved and clean, we can avoid such situations. It is not only EMA’s duty but everyone’s responsibility. Together, we can restore and protect Harare’s wetlands."
Harare’s wetlands face increasing threats from human activities such as farming, construction and poor waste management
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