HARARE, Jan 22 (NewsDayLive)-The Environmental Management Agency (EMA) has issued a stop order blocking a housing development project in Greystone Park, Borrowdale, after proving that the developments were happening in a protected wetland area.
In a statement, EMA spokesperson Amkela Sidange said the developer, who commenced construction without the necessary environmental permits, had disregarded environmental regulations.
"This blatant disregard for environmental regulations is unacceptable, the Agency swiftly intervened, issuing an Environmental Protection Order and initiating legal proceedings against the developer,” Sidange said.
“The developer subsequently submitted a project prospectus, which was promptly rejected by EMA due to the project's potential for irreversible ecological damage and significant socio-economic impacts.”
Sidange urged city planning authorities and developers to check with the National Wetlands Masterplan and local wetland maps before commencing developmental work.
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The Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife has designated over 258,780 hectares of wetlands as ecological sensitive areas as part of safeguarding these vital ecosystems.
"Wetlands play a critical role in our environment and the well-being of our communities. Violating wetland protection laws carries serious consequences, including fines and imprisonment," Sidange said.
Zimbabwe is preparing to host the Convention on Wetlands Conference of Contracting Parties 15 (COP15) in Victoria Falls from July 23-31, 2025, under the theme "Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future."