Cutting across various industrial sites and suburbs a once-pristine waterway, Mukuvisi River has silently endured the relentless assault of industrial affluence and raw sewage emanating from the industrial sites particularly Graniteside industrial hub. The river, winding its way through the Graniteside industrial area, has witnessed the rapid growth of factories, manufacturing units, and warehouses over the years. With this industrial growth, came a wave of pollutants and contaminants, all cascading into the once-pure waters of the river and the consequences have been devastating, both for the environment and the health of those who rely on it.
The once-clear waters now bear a murky resemblance to their former glory, a testament to the countless pollutants seeping into its depths. “The river was once a marvel but all that has been replaced by a stench smell probably sewer and unknown chemicals. The water has now turned black due to chemicals released from the industrial area and its no longer the same river that had clean water in the past,” said Tapfumanei Ngarava a Mbare resident with a small maize field in the banks of the river.
Industrial effluents laden with heavy metals, toxic chemicals, and other hazardous substances have found their way into the river, leaving a trail of environmental destruction in their wake. The impact of the river’s contamination extends beyond its waters, communities living close to its proximity have expressed health concerns over the polluted water source.
“Our fear is the spread of waterborne diseases, skin conditions, and respiratory ailments as a result of the pollution. We have people who use the river mainly apostolic sects carrying out their baptisms. We also have children worse still with erratic water supplies people are left with no option but to make use of the water for their laundry and other issues,” said Jerome Mupamombe of Waterfalls
Environmental Management Agency (EMA) spokesperson Amkela Sidange confirmed that pollution levels were high in the river. “EMA grabs water samples from the river for ambient quality monitoring on a monthly basis and/or when need arise. Pollution levels are on the high in the river with mostly nitrates and sulphates, high Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD); among other indicators of water pollution.
“The reasons for the increase in pollution are continued discharge of raw and or partly treated sewer into Mukuvisi river by City of Harare especially due to the partly functioning Feirle Sewer plant and; Direct discharge of industrial effluent due to accidental spillages from ZimPhos; agrochemical laden run off from agricultural activities within the Mukuvisi riverine system; among others,” said Sidange
As a way of mitigating potential disaster, Sidange said the agency will among other issues prosecute polluters, carry out water quality monitoring and engage polluters and relevant stakeholders on possible strategies to rectify the pollution problem.
