EMA halts MPs' wetland housing project

The Environmental Management Agency (Environmental Management Agency) has moved to stop construction of residential stands intended for Members of Parliament following public outrage over alleged damage to Monavale Vlei, a wetland of international ecological significance in Harare.

Residents say the development threatens one of Zimbabwe's protected ecosystems, sparking concerns about the country's compliance with international environmental obligations.

Sources confirmed that Ema officials visited the site and ordered an immediate suspension of all works pending proper environmental approvals.

"Yes, the agency has advised those involved to stop until the necessary paperwork is obtained," a source said. "As we speak, nothing will be developed at the site."

The dispute centres on Monavale Vlei, one of Zimbabwe's designated Ramsar wetlands under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, which protects wetlands of global importance.

Residents, led by civic groups such as the Combined Harare Residents Association and the Harare Residents Trust, have strongly opposed the development.

CHRA director Reuben Akili said the construction undermines both environmental protection and Zimbabwe's international commitments.

"It is disturbing that Monavale Vlei is under siege from construction activities, including housing for Members of Parliament," he said.

He added that Zimbabwe's leadership role within the Ramsar framework places additional responsibility on the country to protect such ecosystems.

Harare Residents Trust director Precious Shumba also criticised the project, arguing that legislators should be leading environmental protection efforts rather than contributing to degradation.

"We expect lawmakers to protect wetlands rather than pursue personal gain," he said.

The issue has also drawn attention from government officials, with residents reporting involvement by Presidential Affairs Secretary Tafadzwa Muguti.

Harare mayor Jacob Mafume said the matter would be investigated, while noting institutional boundaries between the city council and Parliament.

Clerk of Parliament Kennedy Chokuda said complainants should formally approach Parliament to raise their concerns.

The suspension of works adds to growing tensions over wetland protection in Harare, where development pressures continue to clash with environmental conservation efforts.