Environmental advocacy groups and residents in Mutare have voiced strong opposition to the proposed development of 23 cluster homes on the headwater wetland below the Cecil Kop Nature Reserve, between Arcadia Ave and Plantation Drive in Tigers Kloof.
In a statement, environment lobby group Manica Youth Assembly (MAYA) underscored the critical importance of the wetland ecosystem, highlighting its role in providing essential environmental services and serving as a habitat for numerous plant and animal species.
“This vital wetland ecosystem provides critical environmental services and is home to numerous plant and animal species. MAYA calls upon the responsible authorities to take immediate action to preserve this irreplaceable natural asset for current and future generations,” read the statement
Wetlands, often referred to as the “lifeblood” of the environment, play a crucial role in flood control, water purification, and wildlife habitat. The proposed development, if allowed to proceed, would result in the loss of a significant portion of this essential wetland, a consequence that MAYA deems unacceptable.
“Allowing this development to move forward would be an unacceptable loss that we cannot afford,” the spokesperson added. “We urge the authorities to protect this wetland and ensure its preservation.”
MAYA emphasized that this is a critical moment for the environment, and immediate action is necessary to safeguard what remains of our natural heritage. They called upon all concerned citizens to join them in their efforts to protect the Tigers Kloof wetland.
“This is a critical moment for our environment, and we must take a stand to protect what little natural heritage we have left. We call on everyone who cares about the future of our planet to join us in this fight to save the Tigers Kloof wetland,” said the youth led organization.
Resident association the United Mutare Residents and Ratepayers Trust (UMRRT) weighed in calling on stakeholders to protect the wetland “Mutare was made aware of a worrying development at the gate of the Cecil Kopje nature reserve. An inversion of an officially recognized Wetland. The wetland sits on 5.4 hectares on stand 7568 of Mutare. we need everyone in Mutare and beyond to help defend this wetland which can be found on the national wetlands map,” said UMRRT.
