20,000l of diesel spills after truck overturns

A truck carrying approximately 20,000 litres of diesel overturned near the 36-kilometre peg along the Mazowe–Mvurwi Highway on Wednesday afternoon, triggering an environmental emergency after fuel spilled into the Mwenje River.

The accident occurred at around 3 pm on 15 April 2026, close to the Makumbiri Resort area and roughly 100 metres from the Mwenje River bridge, according to the Environmental Management Agency (EMA).

Authorities confirmed that the overturned tanker released diesel — classified as a moderately toxic substance — into the river system, raising concerns about downstream contamination.

In a statement, EMA said it has since activated emergency response measures and is working with multiple agencies to contain the spill and limit environmental damage.

"EMA has conducted a Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (HIRA) to guide the clean-up operation," the agency said.

Clean-up efforts are being coordinated by Qurity Response Company in partnership with the Bindura Fire Brigade and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), as teams work to prevent further spread of the pollutant.

Preliminary investigations indicate that contamination has already affected a stretch of the Mwenje River, from the Makumbiri Bridge area downstream to Mwenje Dam.

As a precaution, EMA has issued a strong warning to communities and farmers in affected areas.

"The Agency is therefore strongly advising farmers and communities downstream of the affected area not to use the contaminated water for either agriculture or domestic purposes," EMA said.

The agency added that it will continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure that all necessary measures are implemented to safeguard public health and the environment.

Under Section 73 of Zimbabwe's Environmental Management Act [Chapter 20:27], the discharge of hazardous substances into the environment is prohibited, with responsibility placed on the polluter to prevent, mitigate and remedy any damage caused.

Additionally, Statutory Instrument 268 of 2018 requires that such incidents be reported promptly to relevant authorities, including EMA, the police, the Civil Protection Unit and the District Development Coordinator.

Members of the public have been urged to stay clear of the accident scene, avoid contact with the spilled substance, and follow instructions from authorities managing the situation.