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By Gilbert Munetsi
Beginning January 10 and as a way to preserve wetlands, the City of Harare will destroy all crops cultivated on such sites and arrest farmers caught practicing agriculture on them, Nhau has heard.
The farmers risk detention and spot fines of ZWD 25 000.
Quoting Section 20:27 of the Environmental Management Act, Acting Town Clerk Engineer Phakamile Moyo said it was the prerogative of the local authority to protect the environment for the benefit of future generations.
“Section 73 (b) specifically highlights that we must all work to prevent ecological degradation and promote conservation.
“Wetlands are a source of fresh water and we encourage actions to restore them and stop their loss through illegal activity,” he said.
Engineer Moyo confirmed they were facing a serious and growing fresh water crisis that threatened people and the city.
“Cultivation of crops in the prohibited areas is tantamount to destroying the ecosystem that we depend on.
“Wetlands are also vital as they are natural carbon sinks and help with controlling our overall carbon footprint.
“They also help to recharge our water table and so are a good source of water,” he added.
Municipal police teams will be deployed to deal with those defying the directive.
Meanwhile, Chitungwiza Municipality will Thursday commission service delivery vehicles at a function to be presided over by the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Sen Oliver Chidau.
Also expected at the event is the secretary in his office, Tafadzwa Muguti.
Previously, Chitungwiza has been dependent on a depleted fleet that has made it impossible to effectively service the town. Nhau/Indaba
