A local civic organization has expressed alarm over the ongoing destruction of a legally protected wetland in Tafara’s Gosden area, close to Mabvuku Cemetery, where residential construction is reportedly progressing in defiance of environmental safeguards.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Combined Harare Residents Association (CHRA) revealed that the City of Harare had sanctioned the housing development, and urged the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) to intervene immediately to halt the project.
According to CHRA, the wetland in question was officially designated as an ecologically sensitive area in 2023 under Section 113(1) of the Environmental Management Act. It serves as an essential water catchment for nearby communities and hosts a rich diversity of plant and animal life.
“This wetland is not only a crucial water supply for residents but also a vital ecological zone. Permitting residential development here threatens to permanently destroy the ecosystem services it naturally provides,” CHRA stated.
The controversy comes as Zimbabwe recently wrapped up hosting the 15th Conference of the Parties (COP15) to the Ramsar Convention in Victoria Falls, a major international summit focused on wetland preservation. CHRA questioned the commitment of local authorities to conservation in light of the timing.
“Such reckless development reflects poorly on the City of Harare’s sincerity in wetland protection—especially ironic while the country is hosting Ramsar COP15, with city officials themselves participating as high-level delegates,” CHRA added.
The organization further criticized Harare’s municipal leadership for disregarding the official wetland map issued by EMA, noting that earlier warnings issued in October 2024 were ignored. As of 31 July 2025, construction machinery was already on-site and building activities were in full swing.
ALSO READ : Police Dismiss Rumours Linking Sulumani Chimbetu to Grace Mugabe Harassment Claims
