Story by Tendai Munengwa
THE rehabilitation of rivers affected by siltation and environmental degradation is gaining momentum following President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa’s declaration of a state of disaster on major water bodies, a move aimed at restoring ecosystems, strengthening water security and supporting livelihoods.
The intervention is expected to revitalise agriculture, tourism and environmental systems, while creating employment opportunities for communities living along the affected rivers.
In Mashonaland Central, concerns have grown over declining water levels at Mazowe Dam, with local leaders attributing the situation to extensive land degradation and alluvial gold mining activities upstream.
Chief Negomo said illegal mining operations had disrupted natural water flows feeding the dam.
“We have since identified the alluvial mining activities where miners have dug a big pit upstream, and all the inflows are captured there, hence Mazowe dam is running dry,” he said.
The declaration of a state of disaster has paved the way for rehabilitation works on several rivers across the country that have been heavily affected by siltation over the years.
At Murowonzi River in Concession, a pilot rehabilitation project is already yielding positive results.
Site manager Mr Desire Mrerwa said significant progress had been made in restoring the river’s natural ecosystem.
“With privilege of the His Excellency President Mnangagwa, we embarked on this pilot project to rehabilitate Murowonzi river here in Concession, we have restored the natural ecosystem, covering about five kilometres so far.
“The river was heavily silted but we have managed to desilt it and clean water is now flowing, community can now access clean water and water for community garden is now there, so the prototype has demonstrated that rivers can be restored,” he said.
The project has also brought economic benefits to surrounding communities, creating employment for more than 40 people, including women and youths.
“We are happy that this river is now flowing. It was filled with mud, and water was blocked, so we can now enjoy clean water along the river,” said one youth.
Another youth highlighted the social impact of the initiative.
“Several of my colleagues have been employed, and as youths we are now occupied at work rather than indulging in drugs,” he said.
A parent employed through the programme said the project had improved household incomes.
“We can now send our children to school, buy our parents goodies, and I am building my cottage from the proceeds I am getting,” said the parent.
The river rehabilitation programme is set to extend to several major water bodies across the country, including Mazowe Dam in Mashonaland Central, Save River in Mashonaland East, Mutebekwi and Sanyati rivers in Midlands, Munyati and Mupfure rivers in Mashonaland West, Haroni and Mutare rivers in Manicaland, as well as Umzingwane and Insiza rivers in Matabeleland South.
Authorities say the initiative is expected to improve environmental sustainability, restore critical water sources and support long-term socio-economic development in affected communities.
