BCC to relocate Ngozi Mine

The Bulawayo City Council (BCC) has resolved to relocate the Richmond landfill, commonly known as "Ngozi Mine," to address growing pollution concerns raised by residents. The council also plans to partner with private contractors to implement a waste-to-energy project at the dumpsite, transforming an environmental hazard into a sustainable energy source.

Commissioned in 1994 with a planned 20-year lifespan, the Richmond landfill has become a significant source of air pollution, especially for nearby suburbs and schools like Cowdray Park High School and Tategulu Primary School. Frequent fires, exacerbated by high temperatures during the summer, release thick smoke, endangering the health of local communities.

Residents have long called for a solution, citing frequent fires and the resulting air pollution as major challenges. Mrs. Noma Phiri, a resident of Cowdray Park, described the fires as relentless during the dry months. "From August to mid-November, fires broke out almost daily. Relocating the landfill would finally address this issue," she said.

In its latest meeting, the council unanimously adopted a resolution to relocate the landfill and explore a partnership with private contractors to implement a waste-to-energy project. Ward 28 Councillor Ntandoyenkosi Ndlovu, who spearheaded the motion, emphasized the impact of the landfill on residents and schools.

"Residents are raising concerns about air pollution that affects households and schools like Tategulu Primary and Cowdray Park Secondary. This project will provide relief and create revenue opportunities," said Clr Ndlovu.

Ward 6 Councillor Nkosinathi Hove Mpofu seconded the motion, noting the potential financial benefits of converting landfill gases into energy. He proposed a site visit by relevant committees to assess the landfill's condition and facilitate planning.

Waste-to-energy initiatives involve capturing gases like methane from landfills and converting them into energy. This process not only reduces harmful emissions but also creates an additional revenue stream for municipalities.

Ward 9 Councillor Donaldson Mabuto highlighted the lack of proper equipment at the site as a contributing factor to persistent fires and endorsed leveraging private sector expertise for energy generation.

BCC communications manager, Mrs. Nesisa Mpofu, acknowledged the challenges associated with waste disposal sites. She explained that fires often result from the materials dumped, including hazardous inorganic waste.

"Landfills are necessary but can be obnoxious. Compaction processes, which are routine for landfill maintenance, often cause reactions that trigger fires. We aim to address these challenges through sustainable solutions," she said.

The waste-to-energy project has been lauded as a transformative step toward sustainable waste management. By relocating the landfill and addressing pollution concerns, the city aims to improve the quality of life for affected residents while embracing renewable energy trends.

"This is long overdue," said Ms. Anita Ndlovu, another Cowdray Park resident. "The smoke from Ngozi Mine drifts into our homes, especially in summer. A permanent solution will bring much-needed relief to our community."

The proposed initiative aligns with global efforts to adopt sustainable waste management practices and renewable energy. If successful, the project could serve as a model for other municipalities in Zimbabwe and beyond.

The relocation of the Richmond landfill and the adoption of a waste-to-energy project represent a progressive step by BCC toward balancing environmental responsibility with economic development.