Environmental degradation threatens water sources security

HARARE – Environmental degradation caused by artisanal mining across Zimbabwe is posing a severe threat to water security, according to a report tabled in Parliament by the Thematic Committee on Peace and Security.

The report, which assessed Government’s preparedness for recurring droughts, highlighted how water quality and infrastructure have been compromised by illegal mining activities, stream‑bank cultivation and settlements in upper catchment areas.

“Environmental degradation poses a severe threat to water security. Water quality and infrastructure were severely compromised by artisanal mining activities, for example Nyanyadzi, illegal settlements in upper catchment areas for example Insukamini, and stream‑bank cultivation, which cause siltation and pump damage,” the report stated.

Beyond crop production, farmers are also facing external shocks such as livestock diseases. The outbreak of January disease at Tokwane Ngundu was cited as having decimated draught animal power, crippling tillage capacity. The report further warned of growing competition for land and water resources from the mining sector.

It noted that the discovery of lithium deposits near Marovanyati Dam threatens to curtail agricultural land and water allocation in potential irrigable areas.

On funding and project management, the committee said inconsistent and unreliable financing remains a major impediment to progress. Irrigation schemes such as Negomo and Mtshabezi have stalled after donor support was withdrawn or promised Government allocations failed to materialise.

Dam projects have also been delayed by “reorganisation” challenges, including compensation and relocation of households and graves. This has hindered the completion of major projects such as Kunzvi, Muchekeranwa, and Gwayi‑Shangani, delaying the realisation of their intended benefits.

The report further highlighted a significant knowledge gap in climate change adaptation strategies. Most irrigation schemes lack programmes focused on afforestation and sustainable land management to improve micro‑climates and reduce erosion.

While awareness of solar power is growing, the committee noted limited interest in exploring other renewable energy solutions such as wind power, which could provide alternative sources for irrigation.