Environment, Climate and Wildlife minister Mangaliso Ndlovu has emphasised the importance of
responsible wetland management to ensure environmental preservation while allowing for
development.
Speaking during an interview with a local radio, the Minister called for cooperation with government institutions to minimise the impact of any projects planned within wetlands. “Where there is title to the land that has a wetland, and if that title is proven through the Ministry of Local Government, you then need to work with Environmental Management Agency, to find ways in which impact could be minimized, of any project that can be undertaken in the wetland.
“Whatever can be done in a wetland should not materially alter or affect the wetlands, again we cannot say non-usage but we need to find a way to innovatively utilise our wetland. Some through recreational activities are able to rehabilitate the wetlands, that’s what we want when we issue EIAs,” said Ndlovu The Minister’s remarks come at a time land owners have been accused of flouting Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) restrictions by constructing on wetlands.
According to a draft government policy document, wetlands make up 3% of Zimbabwe’s total surface area, about 11 700 square kilometres. Of the available wetlands, 21% are classified as stable, 18 % are severely degraded and 61% moderately degraded. This excludes reservoirs, dams and impoundments that cover 652 151ha, as well as permanent rivers and streams that cover over 5 700km.
Recently, the world commemorated world wetlands day held under the theme “Wetlands and Human Wellbeing”, which reflected upon the interconnectedness between wetlands and various aspects of human health.
