Mathew Masinge
Water pollution is increasingly becoming a major economic risk for Zimbabwe, threatening agriculture, livestock production, public health and industrial activity.
Stakeholders say contamination of key water bodies from mining activities, industrial discharge and untreated sewage is placing significant pressure on the country’s water systems while increasing the cost of purification for local authorities.
Lake Chivero, which supplies water to Harare and surrounding areas, continues to face serious pollution challenges, forcing the City of Harare to spend heavily on treatment chemicals to ensure the supply of safe drinking water to residents.
EcoVision, an organisation that focuses on providing innovative water treatment solutions, will convene a National Water Summit in Harare on March 25 to bring together government officials, environmental experts, private sector and community stakeholders to discuss practical solutions to water pollution and sustainable water management.
EcoVision chief executive officer Cleopatra Ngwenya Dube said water pollution was no longer just an environmental issue but a matter that directly affects the country’s economic development.
“Water insecurity is not merely an environmental concern; it is a national economic risk. Safeguarding our water resources is essential for protecting food security, public health and Zimbabwe’s long-term economic growth.
“Water is the lifeblood of Zimbabwe’s economy, anchoring agriculture, mining, manufacturing, public health and urban development. When water systems are polluted, the effects ripple across every sector of the economy,” she said.
Dube said contaminated water sources were threatening livestock health, agricultural productivity and the country’s ability to meet international export standards.
“Polluted water increases public health risks and forces urban authorities to spend more on purification processes. These costs ultimately strain service delivery and economic productivity,” she said.
Online Reporter