Chronicle EditorAuxilia Katongomara, Chronicle Reporter
MEMBERS of Parliament have urged the Government to set up an Environmental Court to prosecute those who violate the Environmental Management Act.
The legislators also expressed concern over the rate at which wetlands are being destroyed through agriculture and construction activities.
Moving a motion on the preservation of wetlands, Mabvuku-Mufakose legislator James Maridadi (MDC-T) said there is lack of political will to implement the EMA Act.
“An environmental court must be established with a clear mandate to prosecute and fine offenders — not only of the private sector but including Government agencies. EMA will then become accountable to the Environmental Court,” said Mr Maridadi.
“The Environmental Management Agency takes instructions from the Minister. Too much power is vested in the Minister and he or she can use discretion to the detriment of the environment. Decisions on development are relegated to officials who are susceptible to bribes.”
Mr Maridadi said wetlands must be protected as they are a national resource. “Now therefore resolves that this House calls upon the Executive and all agencies of Government and the State at every level to stop construction and development on wetlands; stop using wetlands for agriculture purposes; and put in place mechanisms for the protection and preservation of wetlands,” he said.
The MP said Government must demonstrate political will to enforce existing legislation on preservation of wetlands.
“A law that directly relates to the conservation and protection of wetlands in Zimbabwe or a Wetlands Act must be formulated and adopted through a proper and clear structure in terms of institutional co-ordination,” said Mr Maridadi.
The motion was seconded by Chegutu legislator Cde Dexter Nduna (ZANU-PF).
“Madam Speaker, the wetlands are the lungs of this nation. They also bring pure water to the water bodies that we have in the nation. The depletion of these wetlands brings harm, brings more chaos and it is catastrophic to the values, ethos and health of this nation,” said Cde Nduna. — @AuxiliaK
Londile Moyo
Bongani Ndlovu