NPA target companies flouting environmental laws

Prosecutor General Justice Loice Matanda-Moyo has announced a landmark shift in Zimbabwe's approach to environmental offences, declaring that corporate impunity for "green crimes" will no longer be tolerated.

Speaking at the launch of the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) 2026 strategic roadmap on Thursday, Justice Matanda-Moyo classified illegal mining, toxic waste dumping, and the plunder of timber and wildlife as major threats to national security.

"The era of corporate impunity is over," she said. "Going forward, we must ensure decisive prosecution of all companies that fail to comply with environmental laws, regardless of their size or stature."

Justice Matanda-Moyo explained that the NPA will leverage its specialised Environmental Unit to fast-track environmental cases, ensuring swift judicial outcomes.

"We are not merely prosecuting a crime; we are defending the constitutional right of every Zimbabwean to a clean and healthy environment," she said.

The Prosecutor General emphasized that the strategy, themed "Inclusive Accountability for Inclusive Prosperity and Stability", aims to hold those who profit from natural resources accountable for their preservation.

"Green crimes will now trigger ‘red alerts' across our legal system," Justice Matanda-Moyo said, adding that the specialised unit will work to secure restitution for affected communities.

This move signals a robust crackdown on environmentally harmful corporate practices and marks a significant step in strengthening Zimbabwe's environmental governance.