Smoke returns to Cowdray Park

Residents of Cowdray Park in Bulawayo say toxic smoke from the Richmond landfill, commonly known as the Ngozi Mine dumpsite, is beginning to return as the rainy season draws to a close, raising fears of renewed air pollution and health risks.

For several months, rainfall had temporarily suppressed the persistent landfill fires, offering residents rare relief from choking fumes. But with dry conditions setting in, households say smoke and ash are once again drifting into the suburb.

Families living within a kilometre of the site report that smoke infiltrates homes, clinging to walls, furniture and clothing, forcing residents to keep windows and doors open in a desperate attempt to breathe despite worsening air quality.

The landfill has previously burned for extended periods, sending thick plumes across the area and affecting hundreds of households. Nearby schools, including Tategulu Primary School and Cowdray Park Secondary School, have also experienced disruptions to learning when smoke becomes severe.

Community representative Michael Ndlovu said the situation has become unbearable and called for the relocation of the dumpsite.

"To be precise and straight to the point, as Cowdray Park residents, we want to see that landfill relocated out of Cowdray like yesterday," he said.

He warned that continued exposure could have long-term health consequences, particularly for vulnerable residents, including children and those with pre-existing conditions.

Ward councillor Ntando Ndlovu acknowledged the renewed concerns, saying the rains had only provided temporary relief from a deeper structural problem.

"The persistent fires at Ngozi Mine remain a serious concern for us as a community," he said, adding that the end of the rainy season could trigger another surge in burning activity.

He said the smoke from the landfill disrupts daily life and places significant strain on residents, especially the elderly, schoolchildren and those with respiratory illnesses.

The councillor urged the city to consider stronger long-term solutions, including improved waste management systems or partnerships with private operators to address the recurring fires.

"Our long-standing position has been clear: the landfill site must be properly managed to prevent these recurring fires," he said.

Residents say the recurring fires at the site have turned seasonal weather changes into a cycle of temporary relief followed by renewed hardship, with calls growing for urgent and lasting intervention.