Online Reporter
Conrad Mupesa
Mashonaland West Bureau
THE Environmental Management Agency (EMA) today hosted the Clean Green Cities Awards ceremony at Lake Harvest sports grounds in Kariba, where outstanding local authorities were recognised for their efforts in promoting cleanliness and sustainable environmental practices.
The event, now in its third year, brought together all 14 local authorities from across Mashonaland West Province, underscoring a growing commitment to environmental stewardship among councils.
Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Marian Chombo, who officiated at the ceremony, applauded the winning councils for their dedication while urging all local authorities to prioritise cleanliness, effective waste management and recycling initiatives.
Lead adjudicator Professor Beaven Utete said the awards were designed to assess how local authorities are complying with environmental regulations and promoting sustainable practices within their jurisdictions.
He noted that key areas of focus during adjudication included waste management systems, recycling initiatives and efforts to curb littering.
In the main categories, Mhondoro-Ngezi Rural District Council emerged as the top performer among rural district councils, while the Municipality of Kariba took top honours in the cities and municipalities category. Chirundu Local Board was named the best in the towns and local boards category.
The Municipality of Kariba also stood out after scooping multiple accolades, including the Planning and Documentation Champion award as well as the Green Zone and Shelter Belt Champion.
Nyaminyami Rural District Council was recognised as the Environmental Governance Champion and also walked away with the Most Improved Local Authority award, reflecting significant progress in its environmental management efforts.
Mhondoro-Ngezi Rural District Council further cemented its dominance by winning the Implementation Modalities Champion award, highlighting its effectiveness in executing environmental programmes, while Kariba Municipality was named the Sustainability Champion.
The awards ceremony, which continues to play a pivotal role in encouraging local authorities to adopt cleaner, greener and more sustainable practices, in line with national environmental management goals, also saw businesses and schools exhibit at the grounds.
