Story by Memory Chamisa
GOVERNMENT says illegal housing developments at the Monavale Wetland in Harare have been contained following coordinated intervention measures aimed at protecting the ecologically sensitive area.
In a statement, the Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Dr Evelyn Ndlovu said authorities have instituted mechanisms to safeguard the wetland and prevent further illegal construction.
Dr Ndlovu said the response was driven through a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, which improved coordination among institutions and strengthened enforcement of environmental regulations.
“The unsanctioned construction is now under control and mechanisms have been put in place to avoid a recurrence of similar activities,” she said.
She warned that authorities will continue monitoring the area and will enforce the law against individuals or organisations violating environmental regulations.
Wetlands play a critical role in water purification, flood control, biodiversity conservation, dry-season irrigation and grazing, making their protection essential for environmental sustainability and urban resilience.
