A development project along Mubvinzi River in the Umwinsdale area is threatening the natural flow and availability of water in the river.
Mubvinzi River feeds into Nyaguwe River (Goromonzi District) that also feeds into Mazowe Dam.
Ground clearing has already started at the site with workers revealing that there are plans to construct lodges or a wedding venue.
Part of Mubvinzi River, which has been invaded as part of the construction project, has already been cleared to pave way for what is believed to be a swimming pool or a fishing pond.
There are concerns that tampering with the natural flow of the river will lead to negative downstream effects that will result in water shortages.
Concern is also high that there could be a backflow that will result in residents living nearby the river falling victim to flooding.
Residents are in the process of engaging the Ministry of Water and other stakeholders such as the Environmental Management Agency as part of efforts to stop the project that is threatening the natural flow of water in Mubvinzi River.
Tampering with the natural flow of rivers disturbs the established pattern of natural hydrologic variation and habitat dynamics.
Modification of natural hydrologic processes disrupts the dynamic balance between the movement of water and the movement of sediment that exists in free-flowing rivers (Dunne and Leopold 1978).
Harare and surrounding areas faces acute water shortages due to destruction of natural water sources that include wetlands.
On November 12, 2019 the Minister of State for Harare Province, Oliver Chidawu expressed concern over the continued plunder of wetlands in Harare.
He pledged to act against this unfortunate development and urged stakeholders to make collective efforts in ensuring preservation of wetlands.
As Harare Wetlands Trust, we are advocating for the preservation of water sources in their natural state hence our continued efforts to preserve water sources and ensure HARARE DOES NOT RUN DRY.
#NoWetlandsNoWater
Post published in: Featured