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ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
COVID-19, Climate change and the Environment
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WATER MANAGEMENT
Environmental Management Outlook in the wake of COVID-19
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SDGS
Water hyacinth overwhelmes Mucheke river
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Using Volunteering as a tool to achieve SDGs
F E AT U R E
Agro ecology a tool for enhanced food security Page 8
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Zimbabwe’s Import Ban on Private Vehicles
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QUARTER 04 ISSUE 14 / 20 CLIMATE CHANGE
05
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
COVID-19, Climate change and the Environment
11
WATER MANAGEMENT
Environmental Management Outlook in the wake of COVID-19
13
SDGS
Water hyacinth overwhelmes Mucheke river
15
Using Volunteering as a tool to achieve SDGs
By Raymond Muwaniri, SustainZim
F E AT U R E
Agro ecology a tool for enhanced food security Page 8
Lifestyles & Livelihoods vs Climate Change SustainZim is a publication that promotes a green culture within Zimbabwean homes, schools, work places and everyday lives. It aims to step up the fight against Global Warming and Climate Change by raising awareness about the need to reduce our carbon footprint and a push towards sustainable development. It will showcase green initiatives already being done by government, civil society groups, companies and individuals. PARTNERING We are available to work as implementing partners for projects in Zimbabwe. Get in touch if you would like to partner with us sustainzim@povoafrika.org PUBLISHERS POVOAfrika Trust (MA0001023/2015) ZIM - Harare +263 77 228 3186 / +263 77 291 8810, 1 Verona Gardens, 70 Livingstone Ave RSA - Johannesburg +27 72 600 5283 / +27 760999770 210 Klein Drakenstein, 31 Snipe Street, Horizon, 1724, Roodepoort CONTRIBUTE contribute@sustainzim.org ADVERTISING A rate sheet is available on request ZIM +263 77 291 8810 / +263 77 228 3186 RSA +27 72 600 5283 / +27 760999770 Email: advertise@sustainzim.org Limited Space Available! KEY PERSONNEL EDITOR Archibald Mathibela PROJECT COORDINATOR Raymond Muwaniri DESIGN AND LAYOUT Baynham Goredema FINANCE DIRECTOR Rodrick Longwe CARTOONIST Tafadzwa Tarumbwa DISCLAIMER SustainZim is published by POVOAfrika Trust. The information, opinions and views set out in this journal are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official opinion of POVOAfrika Trust nor any of their partners. Neither POVOAfrika Trust nor any person acting on their behalf may be held responsible for the use which may be made of the information contained therein. Neither are they responsible for citing references within articles, stated facts or credits to photos supplied, this is the responsibility of the contributor. Rights to the photographs and articles remain with the photographers and with the authors respectively. Contact them respectively for reproduction. While all care has been taken during proofing, errors and omissions may slip through and we sincerely apologise for these.
into effect, to reduce CO2 emissions and to help towards the achievement of our Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).
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he Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Mr Mthuli Ncube recently announced during the November national budget that Zimbabwe will be imposing a new import ban on private vehicles over the age of 10 years. The move is aimed at reviving the automotive industry in Zimbabwe and to cut greenhouse gas emissions. There were mixed reactions to this announcement. Every time the government does something positive, it is still clouded in suspicion as to why they have made that decision. Most people in Zimbabwe think decisions made by the government are only opportunities for corruption. As a keen environmentalist who understands the government’s decision, I am going to explain the benefits of this decision. As we already know Carbon Dioxide (CO2) from vehicles is contributing to climate change and global warming. In the European Union (EU) cars are responsible for 12% of the total CO2 emissions for the EU. In response they have put in place strong measures to do away with old vehicles, especially those manufactured pre-2008. These cars are not fitted with an inbuilt mechanism to reduce CO2 emissions, like the newer cars. Now, instead of scrapping these vehicles some of them are finding their way to Africa, therefore defeating the purpose of getting them off the road completely. Africans, especially Zimbabweans have been importing second-hand cars for the past 20 years, from Japan and Europe mainly. It is cheaper to import a used car for a minimum cost of $3000, than to buy a car in Zimbabwe. As a result, there has been an increase of vehicles on our roads, most of which are not road worthy. This is where the ban comes
To get rid of these old vehicles, the EU basically increased the road tax for them. For example, in Ireland a 2007 Toyota diesel Rav 4 will cost about $1200 a year for road tax. The value of the car itself is less than $1000. A newer car with the same engine capacity pays about $300 road tax. This difference in the road tax is one of the incentives used to get people to switch over to newer cars that emit far less. Until this new regulation, there was nothing stopping EU, Japan and other developed countries from shipping their old vehicles to Zimbabwe. Vehicles that are not road worthy and come with other issues, in some instances fail to meet the environmental and safety standards, cannot find their way into Zimbabwe because of this new regulation. Other positive reasons for this ban include; a need to keep certain standards, Africa should not be the dumping ground for old vehicles. The importing of vehicles over the years has killed the motor industry in Zimbabwe. Large car assembly plants like Leyland and Willow Vale are at their least capacity. Hopefully this incentive can help to revive the industry and encourage people to buy cars locally. The process of shipping and transporting these vehicles also releases more CO2 into the atmosphere, than buying local. The argument against this new regulation by the government is that people who cannot afford newer cars will not be able to drive, therefore affecting their way of life. It is very unfortunate that going into 2021, in Zimbabwe owning a car is still seen as a sign of wealth. People will go to all lengths to own a vehicle, even if it is an old one. This feeds into the argument of lifestyle over climate change as some people feel that it is their human right to drive and should not be limited by such policies. In Europe and other developed countries, owning a car is not a necessity and not seen as a sign of wealth. There has been a shift to a system that is more reliant on public transport and cycling than everyone
individually driving cars. There are so many incentives to use the buses and trains daily for work and school, whether Zimbabwe is ready for such incentives is another issue. While on the topic of public t ra n s p o r t , th e Z i m b abw e a n government banned the use of commuter omnibuses at the beginning of the Corona Virus pandemic. The country has reverted to the use of the Zimbabwe United Passengers Company (ZUPCO) as the main form of public transport. This is a great idea in theory because buses carry more people, therefore less commuter omnibuses and private cars on the roads, resulting in less CO2 being emitted into the atmosphere. Practically this has been a disaster for commuters, as ZUPCO does not have the capacity to
How to contribute PRINT RUN
Submission Guidelines
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Articles to be between 350 - 750 words maximum. Content must be original work, and must not have been published/accepted for publication elsewhere. In the event that there is a request to republish the work elsewhere, POVOAfrika will link the creator directly and will not act as a middle man. It is the responsibility of authors to ensure that all copyright issues have been addressed prior to submission. Any consequences for copyright law of infringement will be duly borne by the defaulting author. You the creator will retain all rights to your work. All articles will also be published online on www.sustainzim.org After article has been published on the website the author may publish on their own platforms.
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accommodate all the travellers. There has been serious lack of transport issues, congestions at loading points, more illegal pirating by private vehicles putting commuters at risk by travelling in vehicles not licenced to carry a lot of passengers. This feeds into the argument of livelihoods over climate change, public transport is better for the climate but unreliable in Zimbabwe and may affect your livelihood. What is disappointing about this new regulation is that it does not include commercial vehicles such as tractors, haulage trucks, earth moving equipment and other specialized vehicles used in mining and construction. The minister argued that in the past 5 years Zimbabwe has made about $1.3 billion on the importation of buses, lighter commercial and passenger vehicles. I can understand the government’s reluctance to impose this ban on commercial vehicles. They are bringing in vital income for the government and the owners themselves, creating more
employment opportunities, more selfemployment, and more tax generated for the government. Feeding into the argument of livelihood over climate change. Africa contributes only 3% of the worlds CO2 emissions from energy and industrial sources. This means an even smaller amount for Zimbabwe as a nation. China (30%) and the USA (15%) are the 2 biggest CO2 emitters, so some would argue that Zimbabwe contributes very little in comparison, therefore should be allowed to emit unchecked. My argument here is that Zimbabwe is a developing country and as we develop more people will be able to afford vehicles. If we allow people to purchase old vehicles, we will therefore be contributing to the increase of our already low CO2 emissions. Zimbabwe has an opportunity to bypass an industrial revolution and other high CO2 emitting processes. We can learn from the developed world, what they did wrong and adopt new technologies and strategies that have a lower carbon footprint.
Climate change and global warming are affecting Zimbabweans for the worse daily. Temperatures have reached new record highs and again the first rains have come in December, as opposed to October in previous decades. This is a sure sign that climate change is real and that we should start acting. Southern Africa is the most affected by climate change with parts already becoming semi-arid. There are increased water shortages which are affecting people’s crops and livestock, therefore affecting their livelihoods. Zimbabweans are starting to acknowledge the high temperatures and erratic rainfall. They are starting to accept the fact that the climate is changing but are still not linking it to our activities. More work needs to be done from the grass roots level to educate and inform our people that climate change is a result of human activities and more needs to be done for mitigation and adaption strategies. At SustainZim we stay committed to the cause; educating, informing and highlighting all aspects of Sustainable Development, including Climate Change and Global Warming.
This article collates and reviews evidence that interventions to curtail climate change impacts have unlocked several development opportunities and potentially contribute in improving the living standards of many communities in Zimbabwe. It argues that although climate change effects permeate all the socio-economic development sectors of the country, the collective interventions by government, development partners and individuals on mitigation and adaptation actions could lead to a development trajectory that is evident in a number of indicators toward poverty alleviation, particularly through improved food, energy, water, and health access.
https://bit.ly/2Lwl5DA
AH Wapera Shaz, Hauna Bag!!! Why are you riding a bicycle? You must be a poor man? Look at me, I live round the corner but I still drive to the shops so the girls can see me in my ride. Golf is a sexy car and attracts all the girls, they love it. Don’t tell my wife kkkkk
First of all, I am happily married and don’t need to impress the girls with a car. I cycle because it’s good for the environment and it keeps me fit and healthy. All this driving of cars is contributing to Climate Change. I do my best to reduce my Carbon Footprint, so I only drive when I need to. OH!!! What do you drive? I bet you it’s not better than my Sexy Golf? Actually, I drive the new 2016 BMW i8 Hybrid Sports Car. It is Environmentally Friendly, it uses less fuel therefore emits far less CO2 into the atmosphere. Most importantly in these economic challenging times, I save more money. I judged you too soon, maybe I should get a Hybrid Car. Haha No problem Lovemore, I always encourage my friends to get Hybrid Cars, they are environmentally friendly and less costly to run. You also shouldn’t drive everywhere, try Cycling and Walking to places that are nearby and use the Carpool system.
Climate Change - a change in
regional and global climate patterns, mainly due to human activity
Carbon Footprint - the measure of the environmental impact of a particular individual or organization's lifestyle or operation, measured in units of carbon dioxide (CO2)
Hybrid Car - a car with a petrol or diesel engine and an electric motor, each of which can propel it
Carpool - a group of people who travel together, especially to work or school, usually in a different member's car each day
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Feedback from our readers In the last two quarters we carried out a survey of our readers and we would like to thank all those who responded and gave us some valuable feedback. We are looking to add to our offering. Below are some of the stats and suggestions in improving our paper.
Would you consider having a regular column in the paper?
Would you consider sponsoring an edition?
Would you consider sponsoring an intern for only need $200/month?
11.1%
33.3% 22.2%
22.2%
66.7% Yes No Contact us with more info
22.2%
33.3%
44.4%
55.6%
Yes No Contact us with more info
What content would you like to see included in the newsletter? More and policy in relation to Sustainable Development Initiatives in industry in Biological Sciences as well as solar energy and solar energy based agricultural initiatives DIY info on sustainable environmental issues in under developed regions in Zimbabwe Something regular on National Parks issues and protected areas. What other content would you like to find on the website? More surveys More on wildlife conservation, animal projects. Listing and directory Technical information. We want to know more about sustainable development goals More news on communities living adjacent to protected areas.
Yes No Contact us with more info
How has SustainZim changed your view of Sustainable Development? I am more conscious about my carbon footprint Its a vehicle of information dissemination that has kept me abreast with sustainable projects and development happening around the country. It has given me a broader outlook at local initiatives Taught us how to work for ourselves than waiting for the government to improve our way of life .
This is a great paper! SustainZim is what it says, Sustaining Zimbabwe for the future SustainZim is what it says, Sustaining Zimbabwe for the future After I realized that politics does not determine my destiny as an individual but working for myself now I have six hectares of tomatoes and green beans
SustainZim is doing a great job of disseminating information and documenting Zimbabwe’s sustainable development journey SustainZim is what it says, Sustaining Zimbabwe for the future SustainZim is a vital publication. It reminds each one of us that our own personal actions not only matter but can make a difference. It educates, encourages and illuminates Zimbabweans about how we can secure a healthy future for our country now! This magazine should be compulsory reading for every Person who likes to think himself “an educated Zimbabwean”.
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C L I M AT E C H A N G E
COVID-19, Climate change and the Environment By Loveness Banda
The year 2020 was overshadowed by a deadly pandemic that almost destroyed the Worlds’ economies.
The effects of Climate change coupled with Coronavirus leading to water shortages and stream bank cultivation. Moreso, the two have caused massive deforestation leaving the forests bare and detrimental to erosion.
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he existence or the coming of Corona virus unexpectedly disadvantaged a number of people including the youth. Since the beginning of the year, Corona virus known as Covid-19 affected the day to day running of businesses and also increased impoverishment in the societies especially in Sub Saharan Africa a region that had already been affected by droughts and the recent effects of the cyclone Idai. Zimbabwean individuals have always been sustained by backyard businesses in the form of agriculture and others. From a village in Nyanga, I am one person who felt the effects of Covid-19 since the pandemic introduced restrictions in all the spheres of life. Living from hand to mouth had always been the order of life while selling backyard produced fresh fruits and vegetables. During the course of the year many plans were set aside so as to boost the family consumption but this was disturbed due to the lockdown which was enacted in the early days of March. The lockdown meant failure to sell the locally produced goods which in turn increased the poverty which had already began during the farming season due to Cyclone Idai and climate change. The pandemic also affected several projects intended to be done during stipulated dates such as the Youth day and Africa day and the Environment day. The idea of social distancing meant people were not supposed to
move in numbers and this affected the massive planting of trees which was organised by a team of young climate activists called the Activistas. The target which was set of planting at least 100 000 trees could not be reached because of the strict measures that were put in place. The idea of doing business from home was very wise but in the African tradition once a woman is home more house chores are set for her and this was my and other women’s’ cases. Work could not be done effectively as more house work needed to be completed and more disturbances cropped up. As I was home I was able to notice more environmental disruptions being done. Poverty necessitated stream bank cultivation as many wanted land to plough and forests were cleared as electricity charges hiked and people
Young people preparing land for tree planting.
could not afford due to joblessness. This was the tragedy faced by the environment. The streets have been crumbled by people in search for survival. Staying at home has never been and will never be an option for most of the Zimbabweans. Many are now back to their day to day survival tactics which sustain their families. As for the environment, it has always suffered the loss in biodiversity and will continue as it is the last means of survival for all. Organisations have tried to enlighten the public but to no avail. I have also engaged my team of youths in the campaigns against destructions but these have not hold much water since turning to the environment is the last option for many. The struggle to fully engage many people is still a desire but the turn up and acceptance is seen in
youths, the old are adamant because they depend on the rivers and forests for survival. Funding remains a problem especially in the outskirts of the country like Inyanga. Unless the youths rely on projects they do, there is no funding. The pandemic increased the zeal and the desire to do more researches among young people and also it probed the development of life skills within the young people. This disease and the lockdowns affected the implementation of several projects meant for resuscitating the environment including education in schools as schools were shut down.
Young people planting trees to protect the environment and combat climate change.
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Post Covid-19 era; Zimbabwe needsto re-visit on goals 1, 2 and 5 to remain sustainable Nevson Mpofu, Consultant
Three Sustainable Development Goals are on hang to success before 2030 due to covid-19 threat since the beginning of this year.
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he United Nation s Development Goals are namely Goal 1 , End poverty in all its forms everywhere , goal 2 , End hunger , achieve food -security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable Agriculture .The third one is on achieving on Gender equality and empowering all women and girls . The fact on ground is on the current poverty threshold which is the minimum level of income deemed adequate in a country. You calculate total cost of all resources that a person takes a year. They are far exceeded by total population. Inorder to sustain this there is need for replacement of the utilized resources. The sustainable way of re-filling is replenishment. It is therefore crucial to create a conducive sustainable community by tapping out resources from sources where they lie, make use of them wisely using principles of transparency, accountability, credibility and fair distribution to all people. At the same time community share ownership is practiced. This means people around the area get access to resources. It is wise as well to - the cut down, used resources exceeding the population so that the future generations have enough for themselves to suit their needs. In-order to shoot to a score communities turn to a new modern way of managing transparency and accountability of resources in -order to promote inclusivity. Extractive
9 INDUSTRY, INNOVATION &
INFRASTRUCTURE
2030
industry transparency inclusivity works well in countries taking watch and surveillance to their flourish of wealth. At the same time, it is important to manage resources equally, equitably, with inclusivity in terms of sharing its proceeds. Replenishing the removed resources so that they regenerate and grow for future generations is done to the environment, soil and water resources and promoting Health and Education at par-level. Current situation around
New Poverty trends found way as people got under 21 days lock-down. I was extended to 3 weeks then restrictions. The most affected were Informal traders, vendors, dealers, indigenous transport and business operators in the country. Such is a true fact taking into consideration Zimbabwe is dominated by small to medium enterprises. There are forms of poverty like absolute, relative, situational, extreme and income which erupted. There are sustainability solutions that Government can come with. To solve this is a policy issue. These could range from Industrial policy development to create jobs for young people .. A conducive atmosphere for Investors is promoted by support from the World Bank and the United Nations taking into consideration goal number 9 on building resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization
1 NOPOVERTY
2 ZERO HUNGER
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10 REDUCED INEQUALITIES
11 SUSTAINABLE CITIES AND
12 RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION
COMMUNITIES
GOOD HEALTH & WELL BEING
& PRODUCTION
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Poverty is expected to have risen up since the total consumption poverty line stood at $1284,17 per/person as of March 2020. By now an individual requires that much exceeding $100 US dollars to survive normal life. An individual requires that much to purchase non- food and food items as at 27 April in order not to deepen into poverty. It is sad also to note that poverty datum -line as of 9 June 2020 was at $6420,00 in March to $7425,00 in April, representing 15,7% official figures. A bigger percentage of people is under the poverty datum line in Zimbabwe. This means many people have no access to three basic needs which are food, shelter and clothing. The three determines the status of an individual and further positions the society that person fits in. Bringing the sanity of sustainability just not only lies on civil society and community people in coming up with collective action working together as a family to push the Government cut or end restrictions. That could be a mutual understanding solution yes, What is needed to create sustainability to address poverty and hunger is to track up on the following .. •
New Community regeneration pro g ram s funded by civ il societies, Non-Governmental Organizations, International Donors, United Nations and the Government.
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Community poverty reduction programs for child headed
QUALITY EDUCATION
13 CLIMATE ACTION
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GENDER EQUALITY
BELOW 14 LIFE WATER
WATER 6 CLEAN AND SANITATION
15 LIFE ON LAND
families, poverty-stricken families, old aged families and for orphans, both paternal and maternal and double orphans and finally vulnerable families. •
Food for work programs in communities. One country that has a policy for social development is China with the one child policy because of its 1,5 billion population. The old people go for food for work. They do clean towns and cities so that they earn a living because they have no children.
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Governments of all countries especially developing countries to take a new focus on the 3 goals, 1 , 2 and 5 which relates to poverty, hunger and gender inequality created during the time of covid-19.
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Gove rn me nt re - d i rec tion on new policies and poverty reduction frame-work and strategies linked to programs to link young people, girls at danger of un-wanted pregnancies due to unplanned marriages, sexual abuse and molestation.
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--Good comity of nations relations at global level with the International community. A country like Zimbabwe could come up with a review of the look east policy and look all directions working with sustainable goals like goal number -10, reducing in-equalities within and among countries, ensure
& 7 AFFORDABLE CLEAN ENERGY
WORK 8 DECENT AND ECONOMIC
JUSTICE 16 PEACE, AND STRONG INSTITIONS
17 PARTNERSHIPS FOR THE GOALS
The Sustainable Development Goals, otherwise known as the Global Goals, build on the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), eight anti-poverty targets that the world committed to achieving by 2015.
GROWTH
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sustainable consumption and production patterns and goal 17 on strengthening the means of implementation and re-vitalize the global partnership for sustainable development. •
Currently post -covid-19 era, young women, girls, adolescents, teenagers and youth need scholarships to sustain education and health sectors. Education given free to young people help reduce future poverty by almost 30% in Africa and the developing World.
Gender equality -Goal 5 .
Like many countries in the World marred by gender- based violence, the country is at a fall in terms of gender equality, equity and balance. This is in line with Goal 5 in line with achieving gender equality and empowering all women and children. The three goals have been confirmed on the loose as covid-19 continues. Since Zimbabwe is 90% In-Formal according to Economists, many families lost in-come for family support from the beginning of April up to September. One good example is of In-Formal Traders who cryfoul short-changed and impacted at most by the Government. The Government of Zimbabwe came up with strategies to manage covid-19.
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The 1st 21 days of lock-down according to many informal traders who gave testimony said they had bit of challenges here and there. The continuation of the lock-down after 21 days announced thrice before restrictions brought a mountain of challenges to many in-formal traders. It is now very difficult for them to survive with little or no problems like economic hard-ships. Gender-Based Violence.
There are cross-border women who support children still in school. They need all the basics from female parents who earn living on doing trade. Among informal women in small to medium enterprises are vendors and some women in commercial sex work. Most of these have used the financial resources that they had stashed for the next orders in their business. Genderbased -violence has been reported increasing in the World. This was caused by dwindling sources of income as bread-winners had no job in hand for family income. Besides, there was no source of income. The increase of violence in families reverses gains of equality and equity among men and women. In-order to sustain lives of gender equality, balance and equity and promoting empowerment of women and girls’ action is urgent to take
looking at policy lines, Government strategies and measures that bring sanity to gender equality and empowerment of women and girls. Their empowerment eradicates extreme poverty and hunger. Empowered girls and women have access to Health, Education a move towards achievement of some other goals like goal number 4, ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote life-long learning opportunities for all. Young people and youth need to grow with the idea of equality in an equal society where patriarchy and matriarchy are at the same level. Education, training, capacity building and advocacy is no doubt achievable as
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long communities work with values like equality, empowerment, collective action, social justice and democracy that move well towards sustainability. They need to be groomed as they grow. Catch them young. By so doing they become oriented for integration into humanitarian-built communities with peace enjoyment. For today and future generations, this could move well with goal 16 , promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development , provide access to justice for all and build effective , accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels . Contact Nevison Mpofu through email, nmnevsonmpofu755@gmail.com .. He is a Writer, Poet Journalist and Community and Sustainable Development Lecturer .
visit our website now! www.stockproviders.com Instagram: @stockproviders
2nd publication from the Traditional and Organic Food and Seed Festival – A Tribute to Zimbabwe’s Legumes! In celebration of 2016 as the UN Year of Pulses, the Zimbabwe Traditional and Organic Food Forum has produced a booklet entitled A Tribute to Zimbabwe’s Legumes. This wonderfully illustrated, user-friendly guide covers the health and nutritional benefits of Zimbabwe’s favourite legumes and pulses; their contribution to food security, their benefits to agriculture and the environment. Although highly nutritious, legumes are increasingly neglected as a food. Many complain that they taste bland, take a long time to co o k a n d c a u s e bloating and gas! The legume booklet has a section on better ways to cook and eat legumes and includes some delicious recipes. The book is selling at only $3 so get yours before stocks run out!
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Agro ecology a tool for enhanced food security Masvingo District F E AT U R E
By Nigel Matope
With the rains now in full swing and the prediction from the Metrological Services Department for above average rainfall, the 20/21 farming season is now fully underway.
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uch is expected of the presidentially endorsed “Pfumvudza” program rolled out by the government to enhance household security and adapt to change in climatic patterns. Farmers in Shashe Agro ecological school in Masvingo district are tracing back their roots and tapping into existing known systems of farming. The farmers are putting into practice Ag ro ecolo g y, a con ser vation agriculture technique that makes use of local resources to promote water and soil conservation whilst promoting household security.
Water and soil conservation water and soil are quintessential elements in agroecology. It is therefore very important for farmers practicing agro ecology to conserve water and soil for better crop production and yields.
Some of the key outcomes achieved by farmers in Shashe Agro Ecological School include • Nutrition based diets through promotion of traditional small grains over other grains such as maize. Small livestock production is a common feature on all the farms visited in Shashe.
Communication between famers is key in gathering data and improving on farming methods. Farmers share successes and disparities during the cropping season so as to come up with best practices and approaches that ensure greater yields on their land.
Background
Shashe Agro ecological school, is home to 12 families that benefitted from the land reform programme of the early 2000s. The area is located in agro ecological region five (5), a region categorised by short rainy seasons with precipitation amounts of 650mm or less each season. The hot and dry season lasts for nine to ten months which has significant negative impact on agricultural produce. The soil is sandy making production of the country’s main staple food, maize a difficult and expensive endeavor. Experts’ advice on the growing of small grains in the area to enhance food security and nutrition. The school was setup to provide a platform for small holder organic farmers in Zimbabwe in order to contribute to the knowledge pool on Indigenous farming data. It is also a pilot for promoting agro ecological practices in Zimbabwe and ensuring food sovereignty and understanding of environmental farming sustainability.
Positive Outcomes
and livestock production amongst a host of other methodologies. Farmers also shared insights as to how they managed to successfully implement their practices with similar blueprints for other farming enthusiasts.
• Increased seed varieties through creation of seed banks.
Some of the methods used by the farmers to harvest rain water.
Make use of available small spaces in Agroecology every piece of land is utilized to be productive. Smaller pieces of land offer the farmer greater room to experiment on crop varieties for better on site data gathering.
All farmers in Shashe had a seed archive/ bank which served educate other stakeholders of what they are producing on the farms.
Local farmers demonstrating some of the instruments that are key components in Agro ecology.
Use of organic inputs. Most of the inputs on an agro ecological land are found locally. Farmers make use of manure, mulch, locally produced indigenous seed and natural pest repellents to keep their produce healthy and free of disease and pests. A front yard herb garden by one of the farmers in Shashe.
Characteristics of Agroecology.
During the site visit to the school in early December 2020, various agro ecological practices were on display on the farms visited. Some of the techniques on show include water harvesting, fish farming, vermiculture, traditional seed multiplication, organic manure, agro forestry, nutritional gardens, soil conservation, integrated crop
• Increased food variety through promotion of inter cropping and livestock production.
Mixed variety of food sources are crucial in providing nutrient rich diets. Farmers are encouraged to have more than one food source on their land to ensure they have adequate nutrition sources. Nutritional gardens, small livestock production, agroforestry and herb gardens are all indicators of thriving agro ecological land use practices.
A worm farm by one of the farmers in Shashe.
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•
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all farmers in Shashe had a seed archive/bank which served educate other stakeholders of what they are producing on the farms. Seed storage and creation of on field data on performance of techniques used and yields achieved. Improved water and soil conservation techniques. Increased awareness on agro
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•
•
•
•
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ecology practices to surrounding farmers. Mainstreaming of youth and gender issues within the agro ecological practice. Increased interest and participation in agro ecological practices within the district Improved ecosystem health through improved land use practices. Improved partnerships between farmers, extension officers and organisations. Increased number of practicing farmers. Improved resilience and less reliance on hybrids and donor aid.
Challenges and gaps
From the interactions with the farmers, they noted the need to introduce localized mechanisation equipment to reduce the labour strain. There is also need to come up with financing mechanisms to make the practice more bankable and appealing to the private sector.
Convectional agriculture is still very popular amongst most farmers hence the need to embark on more awareness programs and promote agroecology practices. Agroecolog y still needs to be mainstreamed in policies as mitigation and adaptation strategy to climate change. From the site visit there is still need to utilise renewable energy in the form of biogas digesters. There is plenty of feed for biogas which can be used as substitute for wood fuel which is still the dominant source for heat energy in the area. Furthermore farmers need to introduce pollinators on site to promote pollination. Apiculture also serves to provide another source of food and nutrition for the farmers and their families. There is need to process and market agro ecological produce and commercialise it to turn it into an income generating endevour for the farmers. There is also greater need to rope in more young farmers to the program and let them utilise their digital skills to help promote agro ecological practices.
A collection of videos from Dr Pamela Ngwenya shocasing a variety projects dealing with sustainable development around Zimbabwe
View all videos at her Vimeo page https://vimeo.com/user2299194 Introducing Ebenezer Agricultural Training Centre Ebenezer runs a two year fulltime apprenticeship that enables young people (17-23 year olds) to start and run their own small-scale farm/agribusiness. The Centre has been running since 2007 and is located in Mablauwuni Village in the dry Matopo area of Matebeleland South. The program has an ‘earn and learn’ approach and trainees do not pay anything until they start earning from sales of their produce.
Introducing the PORET Trust Introducing PORET Trust, (Participatory Organic Research Extension and Training) in Manicaland, Zimbabwe.
Grow oyster mushrooms in 5 easy steps STEP 1
STEP 2
STEP 3
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Dry cotton seed hulls, a by product of cooking oil extraction from cotton seed.
Wet and pasteurized cotton waste, ready for spawning “planting”
1 Day
1 Day
Mushroom spawn (“seed”) that is mixed with cotton seed hulls to make a block as shown in step 4. Spawning/planting takes one day to complete, and one waits fourteen days to get to step 4 14 Days
STEP 5
STEP 4
Mushroom block fully covered with fungi and developing Mushroom pinheads (“germination”) in about 5 days mushrooms will be ready for harvesting. 5 Days 0773 842 677 @mushtella
Email:nmupaso@mushtella.com Mushtella Specialty Mushrooms
Mushroom block with mushrooms ready for harvesting. 5 Days
30
It takes about
DAYS 30 days to Harvest.
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P OL I C Y
Environmental consciousness in a highly charged socio-political climate By Nyasha Frank Mpahlo, Green Governance Trust
Today, Zimbabwe continues to experience high levels of poverty, unemployment, political instability and some other hurdles to development that make the regard for the environment the least of priorities at both government and societal levels.
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he nation which currently faces seemingly intractable socioeconomic and political problems has some of the worst environmental indicators in the world with some of the bio-diversity in decline or under severe threat. For instance, the nation currently faces the highest levels of deforestation of due to increased load shedding. The countries wetlands in urban societies are also being engulfed by the expanding suburbs which are mushrooming beyond the control of urban housing authorities. In recent years, the country has witnessed continued desertification, soil and water pollution, slash and burn agriculture resulting in soil erosion and siltation of rivers, primarily as a result of unregulated and uncontrolled re-settlement of people in spaces that were earmarked for commercial farming. In the natural habitat, the nation has been plagued by poaching and unorthodox hunting patterns which have wiped the national wildlife conservancy, notably at the hands of political elites and their Asian counterparts. Moreover, the expan sion of Zimbabwe cities has reversed the country’s efforts to preserve wetlands, forests and biodiversity as enshrined in section (4) of the Environmental Management Act. Notwithstanding the Illegal panning of natural resources and unmonitored resource extraction of established firms that has contributed to environmental degradation, water and air pollution due to lack of accountability mechanisms. How then can we explain this myriad of irresponsible actions against the environment in the face of climate change? Perhaps it’s poor planning, negligence, lack of knowledge and capacity or rather – bad governance? Biriwasha (2008) notes that, in a situation of bad governance as being experienced in Zimbabwe; while the resulting poverty, hunger and strife grab world attention; the environment is usually the silent victim or consequence. The Environmental Democracy Index 2015 (EDI) reveals that the
of rent seeking, where private companies induce government officials to make decisions that generate additional profits for additional profit (rents).
Zimbabwe’s constitution contains no legal obligation to disseminate information to the public to take preventive action in the face of imminent threat of harm to the environment with a score of (0) out of (3). The Natural Resource Governance Institute also highlights that Zimbabwe’s broader socio-political environment hinders transparency and accountability in the extractive sector through the lack of rule of law, virtually scoring (6) out of 100 in that category. However what is more worrying is the role that corruption plays in environmental degradation and the consistent negative positioning of the country on Transparency International’s Corruption Perception index that paints a gloomy path towards fighting environmental degradation. The point of departure when discussing the intersection of the environment and corruption is to establish that resource depletion and environmental degradation arise from inadequate institutions to deal with environmental issues, disparities in economic and political power and a lack of knowledge and awareness among communities (Brundtland, 1987). Corruption aggravates these conditions. Given this analogy, corruption in Zimbabwe has increased the potential for abuse and exacerbated the level of damage
incurring. Therefore good governance is essential for the country and its societies to avoid being undermined by corruption. It is true that a country that upholds good governance in general has the potential of observing environmental governance. Therefore environmental governance should be observed through the way in which different social, economic and political institutions collectively manage the environment. A significant cross-section of Zimbabwe’s society is involved in environmental corruption, knowingly or unknowingly, with cases being recorded at petty and grand levels. It also extends to aberration through illegal behavior, and actions that may be unethical but are protected by the law. On the one hand, petty level environmental corruption involves bribing of public officials from authorities such as EMA and ZRP to allow illegal cutting down of trees for tobacco curing in areas such as Hurungwe, Bindura and Mutoko. On the other hand, grand corruption involves governmental officials in decision-making positions demanding bribes for illegal activities by private corporations or individuals, such as Chinese companies to do construction on wetlands, the case of Longshen. Probably the Chisumbanje Bio-Oil plant would serve as a great example
This does not go without saying that the nation has instituted laws and regulations to ensure the protection of the environment. The recognition of the environment as a vital component to development goes back to as early as 1968 when Z i m b abw e ( th e n R h o d e s i a ) became a Zimbabwe is signatory of the African Convention on the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources. Lately, Zimbabwe has entered into regional and subregional environmental treaties and conventions as a demonstration of its commitment to preserve the environment as basic human rights. Of special mention is the Paris agreement, which is the first ever legally binding climate change convention. The presence of the Forest Commission and the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) also indicate some political commitment by the country to protect the environment. Zimbabwe needs leaders who are conscientious about the need to preserve the environment as a major, if not central, component of sustainable development. Political leaders and policy makers need to wake up and take advantage of the existing policy and legal frameworks; and the expertise that exists to enforce environment laws in Zimbabwe. This also requires the ability of leaders to see the complex relationships that exist among sociopolitical and economic issues in the country; and the environment. A leadership that is concerned about the existence of the next generation can only understand the importance of preserving the environment. A clearer understanding of the need for an actionable climate change mitigation plan is also important if Zimbabwe is to achieve sustainable development and a better future for its next generation.
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E N V I R ON M E N TA L M A N AG E M E N T
Environmental Management Outlook in the wake of COVID-19 – From a Consultancy Lens
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By Anthony Mazula, Environmental Scientist
he unheralded turn of events attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic left the whole world confounded as there was a lot of reprioritization of programmes across all social and economic strata and Zimbabwe is no exception. Apart from the negative impacts brought about by the COVID-19 induced national lockdowns, it is important to note that it also invigorated a paradigm shift in terms of resource utilization and also ways to live in harmony as different components of ecosystems. Significant strides in actions towards the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals together with their respective targets were noticed amidst the lockdown period which showed how adaptive and responsive people can be. The lockdowns totally barred people from converging physically in an attempt to contain the novel virus and stop it from spreading. Although many may say the lockdowns deterred them from achieving some set targets, they unlocked the possibility of making greater achievements even if people are in different geographical locations. Most people continued with their work from home and from personal experience, there were some significant lessons learnt with regards to information and communications technology (ICT) as online platforms like zoom took centre stage in bringing all professionals together. Most proactive organisations also took the opportunity to change the outlook of their operations in a bid to circumnavigate the unforeseen vicissitudes. In terms of reach, the online platforms amplified the number of people who can attend a workshop to 150+ without having to worry about transport reimbursements and finding an appropriate venue to accommodate such a huge number. In the environmental management space, new partnerships were formed
Sign language Zoom meeting.
The shift from physical to virtual operations comes as a merit in the business industry as it helps in cutting down resource utilization significantly.
Air Emissions Monitoring post-lockdown.
and the old ones were strengthened as workshops were being held week in week out hence making significant strides in the right direction towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 17 (Partnerships to Achieve the Goal). A myriad of anecdotal reports were crafted and they highlighted how the pandemic induced lockdowns resulted in reduction of human pressures on natural ecosystems and also reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from heavy industries. Most industries operate heavy machinery which emit a great deal of harmful gases into the atmosphere thus causing imbalances in the aerial ecosystems and subsequently resulting in climate change. Electricity provision also improved in the country hence the reduction in the dependence on stand-by generators in the case of power cuts. Most of the emissions recorded were heavily attributed to the operation of these generators for long hours.
Air Emissions Monitoring post-lockdown
Soon after the lockdowns, environmental consultancy companies resumed their duties to measure and monitor the air emissions from industrial operations and there were notable reductions in the total pollutant load from the gas emitting machinery and appliances. These reductions mean that there was partial attainment of targets for some of the SDGs e.g. SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 15 (Life on land) to mention but a few. In the environmental consultancy industry, the challenge which was being faced was that of having to meet physically with all the relevant stakeholders when carrying out an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) for development projects. The shift to electronic communication led to significant reduc tion in travelling hence improvements in efficient service delivery, economic development, reduction in car exhaust emissions, and reduction in paper usage. The challenges in mobility also incited a change in the modus operandi of the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) as they declared the agency paperless hence a significant reduction in paper usage as well. Reduction in paper usage means reduction in the amount of trees required for that cause, hence biodiversity conservation.
It is also imperative to applaud the efforts made by the youths from various sectors in pushing the sustainable development agenda with an amplified voice. Youth led organisations such as Zimbabwe Youth Bio diversity Ne twork (ZYBN) and Advocates 4 Earth took the initiative to make this a success. Youths got the opportunity to share their experiences and mapping the way forward in the post-pandemic era. They also got the opportunity to review the Zero Draft of the Post2020 Biodiversity Framework and developed a position paper with recommendations to be incorporated in the final framework through a virtual workshop organised by ZYBN. This clearly shows that the youth are fully committed to ensuring sound environmental stewardship. However, with new strategies comes a new set of challenges as well. Some of the key virtual meetings which were hosted failed to meet the objectives due to technical glitches and also lack of knowhow in running the applications properly. There is need for all professionals in various sectors of the economy to come to terms with the fact that there is a new normal which involves a chain of virtual interactions. This needs a collaborative and multi-sectoral approach for enhanced efficiency in engagements. It is also imperative for the various workshop hosts to consider marginalized groups i.e. people from poverty stricken backgrounds and people living with disabilities, when carrying out the virtual workshops so that there is enhanced inclusivity using a “no one is left behind� approach (https:// mashable.com/article/zoom-videoaccessibility-features/ ).
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MINING
Environmental services: A case study of the environmental challenges in mining sector, Zimbabwe By Blessing Mugaviri
Introduction
The mining sector is seen both as a driver for socio-economic development and for environmental damages as a result of the extraction of minerals. The impacts on the environment brought by mining activities and the importance of mining to other industries demonstrate the need for the analysis of such sector, promoting its development under the assumptions of sustainable development. With the growing population in Zimbabwe, the mining sector has strong and direct environmental impacts. With the growing trade in mining operations , mining companies often work directly with the most vulnerable populations and can dramatically alter the natural surroundings in the places they work, and have the potential to make volatile economies even more unstable. This paper explores on the environmental sustainability challenges associated with mining sector in Zimbabwe. The researcher explored on issues to do with biodiversity, pollution, water management and the practical measures to address the challenges associated with them such as, holistic integrated approach and government intervention through implementation of policies. Environmental Challenges in the mining sector
Mines are hubs of air pollution in Zimbabwe. The mining sector is extremely energ y-intensive and one of the major emitters of greenhouse gasses. It is also widely accepted that available mining resources are getting deeper and of declining grades. In Zimbabwe the older mines such as Trojan Nickel (Bindura), Renco Mine (Masvingo) and How Mine (Bulawayo) and others are now deep mines which demand more consumption of non-renewable energy sources. According to Ruttinger and Sharma (2016) this will lead to growing demands for water and generation of greater mine waste, thereby raising energy demands, and increasing the industry’s climate footprint. Monitoring the industry’s carbon emissions and the recent success in climate negotiations (Ruttinger and Sharma ,2016) will increase pressure on mining companies to explore ways to reduce their emissions by using renewable energies. One of the greatest challenges associated with mining in Zimbabwe i s bio d iversity loss th rough deforestation, since there is massive
deforestation during preparatory stages. As noted by CRD (2012) when the diamond mining companies started operating at Chiadzwa there was an increased use of wood because of the influx of people into the area with no other source of fuel energy. The greatest deforestation however was caused by the mining companies as they effectively cleared large tracks of land in order to expose the diamond ore. One can also note that it is not only for diamond mining but, for every mining activity to take off, they clear the land as they create roads and expose the land to increase accessibility (Gomez et al, 2013). Such a substantial loss of biodiversity will often reduce the wildlife inhabitants of the affected area. According to Chiwandamira (2007) without a place for birds to build their nests, antelopes and other animals to create their homes in hidden areas within forests, animals are left with few survival options other than emigration, once complete deforestation has occurred. The change in both the aquatic and terrestrial habitats would have a profound effect on biodiversity, an issue that needs further investigation. The mining operations have drastically changed habitats in addition to increasing human population. Mining also use heavy machinery such as excavators to clear large tracks of land. The movement of excavators loosens the soil thereby causing chronic erosion. The removal of vegetation cover can alter the biological systems found in the soil and also make it vulnerable to forces of erosion. Recommendations
Mining can become more environmentally friendly through developing and integrating practices that reduce the adverse environmental impact of mining operations. According to Lins and Horwitz (2017) The UN- REDD+ Programme incorporates a number of documents that confirm the role that mining procedures in over 60 countries play a driving force in deforestation of these areas. The strategies discussed in the UN- REDD+ Programme can assist Zimbabwe with designing and implementing programs that specifically cater to the area’s needs. In Zimbabwe Forestry Commission has started to respond by implementing programs that protect forests from deforestation. Forest monitoring can also help in reducing deforestation, as postulated by Mamimine (2010) the implementation of new monitoring technologies like drones and mobile
phones have the potential to greatly improve the way in which important data is collected and relayed back to government and corporation personnel. The use of higher resolution cameras to map the dispersion of mining impacts within an area could also improve the way in which environmental issues are addressed and even prevented. Mining companies need to come up with a biodiversity strategy. C, Lins and E, Horwitz (2017) published a study on the most recent initiatives taken by large diversified mining companies such as Anglo American and Rio Tinto. According to the study RIO Tinto has committed to make a net-positive impact on biodiversity on the lands where it operates. In other words, the company seeks to leave as much natural variety, if not more, than existed before its operations close. It also aims to rehabilitate land as it comes out of use, not wait until all operations at the site have ceased (Hillman,2008). The company has published a “Biodiversity Strategy”, a framework for managing interests and concerns of a wide range of groups, integrates biodiversity and business management and requires that all businesses have plans for current and potential uses of companymanaged land. Such initiatives if adopted by all mining companies in Zimbabwe can help in protecting biodiversity. Water resource in mining faces challenges that include ,creation of potentially toxic waste rock, water table contamination, tailing dam failures, deep water disposal and acid mine drainage to mention but a few. These factors have a negative impact on the environment hence compromising the sustainability of the resource. However these constraints may be avoided or reduced by implementing mitigation measures. Acid mine drainage (AMD) is a potentially severe pollution hazard that can contaminate surrounding soil, groundwater, and surface water. The formation of acid mine drainage is a function of the geology, hydrology, and mining technology employed at a mine site. The primary sources for acid generation are sulfide minerals, such as pyrite (iron sulfide), which decompose in air and water. Many of these sulfide minerals originate from waste rock removed from the mine or from tailings. Kesler (2008) noted that if water infiltrates pyrite-laden rock in the presence of air, it can become acidified, often at a pH level of two or three. This increased acidity in the water can destroy living organisms, and corrode culverts, piers, boat hulls, pumps, and other metal equipment
in contact with the acid waters and render the water unacceptable for drinking or recreational. Considering the challenges mentioned afore on water resource, integrated water resource Management may be the best approach in sustainably manage the resource. Although the planning and management of water resources especially in the mining sector in Zimbabwe is a long and intricate process, a holistic approach is the best way to sustainably manage the resource. According Hillman (2008) Integrated Water Resources Ma n a g e m e nt ( I W R M ) i s a systematic process for the sustainable de velopment, allocation and monitoring of water resource use in the context of social, economic and environmental objective. The process seeks to strengthen cross sectional coordination in development of the country’s water resources to reduce conflict, waste and unsustainable systems. Machena (2009) also noted that the process towards realization of IWRM must be participating involving all key stakeholders within the economic sectors, nongovernmental organization, the public sector and other relevant civil society groups. The IWRM planning and implementation process is a logical sequence of phases that are driven and supported by continuous events. Conclusion In Zimbabwe, few mining companies particularly those owned by large international mining houses are making strides in complying with international best practices to achieve full criteria for sustainable business. The extractive nature of the mining industry however should be accompanied with appropriate observance of environmental laws, appropriate corporate social responsibility, legislative reforms, transparency and accountability by all stakeholders. However, the overall current performance resulted in the researcher suggesting that these mining companies must continue to improve their practices by following what have been discussed in this research paper for sustainable development goal to be achieved, that is capacity building, integrated and holistic approaches to the environment.\ Can be conducted on WhatsApp/Call on +263712567127 or email:mugaviriblessing@ gmail.com
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WAT E R M A N AG E M E N T
Water hyacinth overwhelmes Mucheke river Sukuoluhle Ndlovu
Zimbabwe – Masvingo – Rivers are fast becoming one of the most endangered precious natural resources on earth.
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he sustainable existence of these freshwater ecosystems continues to be threatened by different anthropogenic activities like agriculture; industrialization and urban development and all these have the potential in the deterioration of river water quality.
One resident, Almerlisa Bauti said, “Water hyacinth is slowly destroying the river which is a tributary to Mushagashe and Lake Mutirikwi where water for use in the City comes from. The City Council is not taking any action in preventing the belt from spreading further. The weed is fast becoming a threat to the surrounding communities as it possess as a public health problem as it will in the end bred many human diseases and also snakes. The aqua life is slowly being destroyed and this is also a threat the council has to take action and make sure the water is left clear,” said Bauti.
As stated in the Journal of Geosciences and Environment Protection by David Chikodzi, Munanamato Mabhegedhe and Tatenda K Tunha. The aqua life has been hugely affected and this also can be attributed to the climate change as the river which flows into Mushagashe which then flows into Mutirikwi no longer fills to its capacity and the water hyacinth is now blocking the water from flowing. It is evident that water hyacinth in Mushagashe has disturbed and clogged the irrigation pipes and this has led to decline in the agricultural production, and decline in agricultural production is leading a decrease in food security and productivity in the surrounding communities. Lakes, dams and rivers in Zimbabwe are now heavily characterized by water hyacinth and in Zimbabwe, water hyacinth has been attributed to the failure by City Councils to control water pollution as raw sewage is flowing into the rivers and lakes. In an interview with the Public Relations Officer of Masvingo City Council, Ashleigh Jinjika said water pollution has created a breeding space for water hyacinth. “The water in the river is dirty mainly due to disposal of raw sewage, run off of fertilizers and untreated industrial waste into the river. As the City Council we admit that the environment has been damaged. Pollution on its own has negative effects to the community and we are struggling on our side and for now we do not have any budget for us to remove the water hyacinth from the river. We are working on making sure that water pollution becomes a thing of the past and conserve the natural resource so that there is no breeding space for water hyacinth,” she said. The continued water pollution into the river has seen the council fined by Environmental Management Agency (EMA) for failing to take action against the water pollution which is resulting in the production of water hyacinth.
In the years between 2014 and 2015, there was an organisation, Family and Friends of Rivers and Lakes in Zimbabwe, (FAFORALIZ) which helped in the removal of the water hyacinth with a hyacinth pulling tool called the Pigato but the equipment was seized by EMA and they could not continue with their work.
Mucheke River invaded by water hyacinth.
“Our failure to take action against water pollution resulted in us being fined by EMA and we paid US$10 000 and we have since submitted our work plan. That is sewer blockages which are not human induced. The council has since increased surveillance, monitoring industries which are disposing untreated industrial waste into the river, encouraging the community to stop vandalism which is causing sewer blockages as well as discouraging the community from practicing stream bank cultivation,” Said Jinjika. In the previous years, the council used to have water hyacinth removal programs but due to shortage of the required equipment, the council has since been struggling and it is their mandate to clean up the river. But in the previous years, they used to wait for the water hyacinth to reach Lake Mutirikwi which made it easy for them to remove it.
EMA Regional Manager Milton Muusha, said it is the responsibility of the Council to deal with the water hyacinth and are not mandated to deal with issues to do with water pollution as their role is to monitor and prevent pollution and even water pollution and nothing beyond that. Godfrey Mtimba the Spokesperson for Masvingo United Residents and Ratepayers Alliance MURRA a civic organisation which represents the residents called for action to those who are responsible. “As MURRA, we urge the Masvingo City Council and other responsible stakeholders to find a lasting solution to destroy the parasitic weed that has for long disturbed flow of water to Lake Mutirikwi. Action must be taken before its beauty is destroyed and this will have a huge impact on the surrounding communities,” said Mtimba.
Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) said water hyacinth has a negative impact on the ecosystem as it increases the evapo-transpiration of water; it creates a favorable environment for the production of snails and mosquitoes that cause diseases like Bilharzia and malaria. The mat of water hyacinth affects recreation and tourism facilities, impacts fishing and transportation, i rrig ation and hyd ro p owe r infrastructures in water bodies infested by the nuisance weed, water hyacinth. Water quality can be affected by the invasion of water hyacinth. Lake Tana has been invaded by water hyacinth since 2011 and currently the expansion rate of water hyacinth is too severe which requires coordination of all stakeholders to control it. Other infested water bodies in Africa include Lake Malawi, the Zambezi River, Tano Lagoon, River Niger in West Africa, Incomati River in Mozambique, Kafue River in Zambia, Pangani River in Tanzania and Lake Naivasha in Kenya. Water hyacinth is slowly depleting aqua fauna and flaura that depends on water. CALL TO ACTION For any queries, complaints or suggestion; people can contact the Masvingo City Council’s Public Relations Officer Ashleigh Jinjika on 263 716 090 178 or 263 773 651 079 Email address - jinjikaashleigh@gmail.com
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MINING
Environmental Lawyers Challenge Zimbabwe’s accountability and Transparency in Mining Activities which are Corrupted. Nevson Mpofu, Consultant
Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association [ZELA] takes Zimbabwean communities to levels of accountability and transparency through support of Mines and Minerals Amendment Bill.
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imbabwe Environmental Law Association [ZELA] takes Zimbabwean communities to levels of accountability and transparency through support of Mines and Minerals Amendment Bill. The Bill contains for the nation prospects of improving transparency and accountability in the Mining Secor as far as how minerals are managed for the sake of the general public. Transparency and accountability contribute to economic recovery and good resource management. This brings stabilization and economic growth. This is in line with the Transitional Stabilization Program which is for vision 2030. Zimbabwe strives a $12 billion US Dollar mining industrywithastrongeconomyby2023. ZELA Director, Mutuso Dhliwayo points it out that transparency and accountability take Centre stage to move towards economic recovery and good management of resources. In-order to reach a $12 US Dollar mining industry in line with vision 2030, protecting the nation from all forms of corrupt activities in the mining sector is crucial. The majority of people also needs to enjoy rights to mineral wealth, right to its information, right to share and distribution of wealth in the circle of community share ownership. Speaking in Harare at a Civil Society Organizations and Private Sector engagement on transparency in the mining sector in Harare , Mutuso said there is need for initiatives on legislation and policy implementation to curb issues related to corruption which undermine the marginalized , poor and vulnerable communities . ‘’ Transparency and accountability must take Centre stage for us to have economic recovery. Economic recovery and good management of our resources makes us move towards stabilization and growth. Zimbabwe ‘s vision 2030 is in line with this . However, a US $12 billion mining industry is reached through transparency and accountability.’’ ‘’The issue of resource management and good governance is important as well. This makes communities free to enjoy attainment of rights related
to minerals management done fairly. The nation must be protected from all forms of corruption in the mining sector. This undermines the nation.’’ ‘’People need to have access to mines and minerals management in the country. Secondly, the need to be disclosed information in relation to what they are supposed to get is important to the nation because everyone matters, communities count as well.’’ Zimbabwe has a bill that has gaps to be closed. This is in relation with mines and minerals transparency and accountability. The bill according to ZELA has no strong provisions that ensure access to information. . Secondly, it does not have provisions for public disclosure of mineral mining agreements, license and concessions entered by the Government .. . ‘’There are gaps already identified that we need to close so that transparency and accountability is seen by all . Stakeholders must come together, work and have the equal right to knowledge and information in relation to mines and minerals. ‘’Africa’s Mining Vision must be clear in terms of mineral revenue and benefit to citizens. This is woven by initiatives that promotes transparency and accountability. There must be a basis like the need to look at the constitution, good governance, national objectives, policy implementation, legislation , combat corruption , stop abuse of office , promoting public accountability and manage well financial matters.’’ He noted. ZELA takes notes that volumes of mineral production and their payments must benefit the people at large. Identities of beneficial ownership of holders of mineral rights is crucial in building up on transparency and accountability. ZELA Environmental L awyer, shamiso Mutisi takes further a point that sustainability in information disclosure related to environment, social and economic reports by companies on Zimbabwe Stock Exchange is important and contributes towards transparency and accountability in the mining sector. He strengthens that initiatives must be
built to move towards accountability and transparency through use of laws and policies to support this, ‘’ Disclosure of information on environmental reports by companies on the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange is no doubt a sign of transparency and accountability. This goes well with the point that initiatives on transparency and accountability must be taken from the ground to raise up from the ground issues in the mining sector that affects communities impacted mainly by corrupt activities.’’ Said Mutisi The objectives of the workshop increase awareness raising on EITI [Extractive Industry Transparency Initiatives among civil society
organizations and private sector. It is important to build knowledge on the business case for EITI adoption. Secondly, to share information on strategies that can be used to improve engagement between CSOs and private sector on transparency in the mining sector. The workshop took experiences from EITI adoption in Zambia on transparency and accountability in the mining sector. Audit issues in the Mining sector stand vital in the case of transparency and accountability as a whole.
The Green Snippets FORESTRY
Forest Regulations, Laws and Statutory Instruments in Zim Zimbabwe has a very high level of biodiversity, and the dominant forest ecosystems in the country can be loosely grouped into Flora Zambeziaca and Afromontane phyto-regions and exotic plantations found in the Eastern Highlands, Manicaland Province. The Flora Zambeziaca phyto-region has five woodland types named according to the dominant species, miombo -- musasa and munhondo trees, mopane, teak -- mukusi in the deep Kalahari sands in the central and western part of the country and terminalia/ combretum -- mususu and mugobo. About 53 percent of the country is covered by woodland forests and shrubs, and 43 percent of the forest land is designated as communal forest that provide a variety of valuable products that are key to the livelihoods of both rural and urban communities. [Source: https://allafrica.com/stories/201810200095.html]
celebrates Rwanda’s treasured gorilla population by inviting friends to come and name the years’ new-born babies. [Source: https://allafrica.com/stories/201811060098.html
CONSERVATION
Hwange Sanyati Biological Corridor Project
The Hwange Sanyati Biodiversity Corridor (HSBC) project covers an area of 5.7 million ha in north western Zimbabwe and falls within the Kavango-Zambezi (KAZA) Trans-frontier Conservation Area (TFCA). It is a $6.4 million project being funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) over 5 years. World Bank is the implementing agency for the project, WWF is the activities implementing entity and the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources Management is the coordinating authority. Key project partners are: Parks and Wildlife Management Authority; CAMPFIRE Association; Environmental Management Agency; and the Forestry Commission. [Source:http:/ /www.forestry.co.zw/2017/01/23/hwange-sanyatibiological-corridor-project/]
BIODIVERSITY
A Call to Action for Africa’s Biodiversity Crisis
AGRICULTURE
Former President of Nigeria, Olusegun Obasanjo, has called on his fellow African leaders to take action to tackle the current biodiversity crisis facing the continent and do more to protect Africa’s natural resources. This comes in light of the Living Planet Index’s release last week, which showed that species have declined by 60 percent on average. As a continent that relies so heavily on biodiversity for food, water, jobs and cultural heritage the President has urged African policy makers to take action when they meet at the African Biodiversity Summit later this month. Earlier this year I had the great privilege of travelling to Rwanda to take part in the unique Kwita Izina ceremony. This ceremony
Post forecasts that sugar cane production in Zimbabwe will increase by 9 percent to 3.5 million MT in the 2018/19 MY, based on a return to normal weather after the previous year’s drought and improved sugar cane yields from more available irrigation water. Post forecasts that sugar production in Zimbabwe will increase by 17 percent to 460,000 MT in the 2018/19 MY, based on an increase in the quantity of sugar cane delivered to the mills and better quality sugar cane for crushing, resulting in good factory recoveries. Post forecasts that Zimbabwe will fully utilize the United States Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) allocation for the 2018/19 MY.
Zimbabwe: Sugar Annual
[Source: http://news.trust.org/item/20160704103323-lj6dg/]
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SDGS
Using Volunteering as a tool to achieve Sustainable Development Goals Oswald Simbarashe Chishanga, Save Our Environment Trust
Volunteering has become one of the key vehicles that can be used to achieve 2030 development goals.
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t is estimated that there are 12.1 million full time equivalent volunteers in Africa with the highest proportion of people volunteering informally (86 per cent), according to the 2018 State of World’s Volunteerism Report. This presents a great opportunity for Africa to achieve set targets and goals for SDG’s. The SDG’s are founded on the theme “Leave No One Behind” which implies the involvement of everyone in the quest to achieve the set goals. In this light it is important to incorporate volunteerism in all sectors i.e. civil society, government, corporates etc, in the development process. Despite a prevailing perception that volunteering is considered an unexploited resource with the potential to transform millions of people across Africa, particularly the youth, some governments continue to not provide recognition of volunteering limiting its contribution to the SDGs. Save Our Environment Trust (SOET) a local NGO based in Gweru for example has put volunteerism at the heart of its program implementation. To achieve this SOET has managed to establish and support community b a s e d e nv i ro n m e nt a l c l ub s . Participation in these clubs is purely voluntary. In 2015 when the program was launched there were only 4 school environment clubs with a membership of about 100 people but in 2019 there are 60 school environment clubs and 4 community clubs with a total membership of 1500 people. Sustainability of these clubs is built around capacitating the clubs with leadership skills and providing requisite support that always ensure ownership and strategic vision of the clubs is fostered by the communities or schools. Community volunteers in Chiwundura District for example have been engaged in the following projects: tree planting, small scale agriculture, small livestock production, marmalade making and clean up campaigns. SOET is a stakeholder in volunteer networks like Good Deeds Day Network, United Nations Volunteers and International Association for
However, according to a Discussion Paper prepared ahead of the 2019 African Regional Forum on Sustainable Development further efforts are needed to collect evidence on the contribution and impact of volunteering to issues such as youth development and conflict resolution that are found pertinent in the continent.
Corporate Volunteer Initiatives
Community Environment Club Meeting in Chiwundura.
Volunteer Network. Our participation in these networks have added spur to our volunteers and such platforms have provided greater motivation for volunteers to continue transforming their communities to meet Agenda 2030 targets. SOET programs are designed to address SDG 13 which is climate action with particular focus on improving education and awareness on climate change. The organisation also aims to strengthen climate resilience and adaptative capacity of grassroot communities in Zimbabwe. Due to the inter connectedness of SDGs, in our quest to address set goals of SDG 13 we have inevitably managed to address other goals most notably SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 15 (Life on Land) among others.
Volunteerism is a key ingredient that can lead to the achievement of SDG’s. But for this to become reality It is important to foster the need for a multi-sectoral and multi-stakeholder approach facilitated by volunteering to ensure that the 2030 Agenda are participatory, people- centric and inclusive. Secondly, there is need to use volunteerism as a tool to achieve leave no one behind aspirations through its role in building bridges to connect people of diverse backgrounds. There is also need to use volunteering as an effective means to equip young people with skills; and lastly there is need to fully realize the potential of technologies for volunteering. There is growing need to ride on the back of a growing momentum to strengthen an enabling environment for volunteering and exchange in Africa. Several countries in the continent have formulated and adopted volunteer policies and laws.
To ensure the achievement of SDG’s and other development goals like Africa Agenda 2063 there is need for young people in Africa to act as agents of change in society by calling for institutions that are more responsive not only to their needs, but to national or global concerns, and providing the energy, creative ideas and determination to drive reforms. Young people should be in a position to influence debates on development agendas. In this way youth volunteerism can become one of the assets for the realization of these aspirations. In conclusion, it can be said that for volunteerism to achieve Agenda 2030 and 2063 in the African context there is need to create an enabling environment and strategic collaboration among stakeholders for volunteerism. This will benefit all age groups on the continent to be actively involved in the development and social cohesion of the continent through volunteerism. Adoption and effective implementation of volunteer laws and policies in Zimbabwe is a key step that could serve as a catalyst towards the realization of global andregional development frameworks such as the African Union’s Agenda 2063, the SDGs, as well as national and sub-regional development objectives.
School Environment Clubs Volunteering to do a clean up under the Good Deeds Day Network
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biogas harnessed from municipal sewage plants was investigated. Two sewage plants Crow borough and Marlborough were investigated as the potential raw material suppliers for the biogas generation. Sewage sludge samples were co...
Value addition of brewers spent grains to bio coal using hydrothermal carbonization (Dr. Mercy Manyuchi (Pr. Eng; CEng, MZweIE)
The production of alternative energy sources from waste residues is increasingly becoming popular. This paper focuses on the value addition of brewery spent grains waste by converting it to bio coal using hydrothermal carbonization. Brewery spent grains (BSG) from a local brewery company were use... 04
Papers by Dr. Mercy Manyuchi (Pr. Eng) Harare Institute Of Technology, Chemical And Process Systems Engineering, Faculty Member @MercyManyuchi
Read More Papers by Dr. Mercy Manyuchi are available online and you can get updates when she publishes new papers at https://hit-ac.academia. edu/MercyManyuchi
Value addition of coal fines and sawdust to briquettes using molasses as a binder (Dr. Mercy Manyuchi (Pr. Eng; CEng, MZweIE)
In this study, the cobriquetting of coal fines saw dust and molasses as a binder is explored as an option for value addition of the wastes generated in the various industries. The effect of the saw dust concentration and the molasses concentration w a s i n v e s t i g a t e d t h ro u g h m e a s u r i n g t h e b r i q u e tt e . . . 01
Integrative Municipal Sewage Sludge Management through Biogas Production: A Case Study of Municipal Plants in Harare, Zimbabwe (Dr. Mercy Manyuchi (Pr. Eng; CEng, MZweIE)
In this study, the potential to generate electricity from sewage sludge biogas harnessed from municipal sewage plants was investigated. Two sewage plants Crow borough and Marlborough were investigated as the potential raw material suppliers for the biogas generation. Sewage sludge samples were co...
Biogas Production from Saw dust using Acti-zyme as Digestion Catalyst and its Upgrading to Bio methane using Chemical Absorption Zimbabwe has one of the 05 largest deposits of timber in Southern Africa (about 500 000 tons per annum) such that most entrepreneurs venture into timber processing. The venture results in generation of a lot of sawdust dumps that are of no economic use if they are left lying around. There is 10000 metric tons that go to waste each year which when bio-converted can result in biogas.
Biodiesel production from waste cooking oil: Technical and Economic Feasibility Biodiesel production from waste cooking oil (WCO) is an 06 alternative source of biofuels. WCO is a cheaper raw material compared to other sources since it’s a waste product. Visits to food outlets in Harare indicated an average 28.9% disposal of the total oils and fats consumed. Alkaline trans-esterification process was used for the conversion of WCO to biodiesel.
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Nutrient Removal from Wastewater through Bio augmentation (Dr. Mercy Manyuchi (Pr. Eng; CEng, MZweIE)
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In this study, the potential to generate electricity from sewage sludge
for damages
The fossil fuel industries 08 generates huge amounts of carbon dioxide to the environment during energy g e n e ra t i o n , i n c re a s i n g the greenhouse effects on the environment on a daily basis. This effectively results in negative climate change effects yet it’s the ordinary person who is paying for it-the fossil fuel industry must own up and pay the damages. “ndividuals, climate change activists and policy matters must come up during COP22 in Morocco, and ensure this is done
Treatment of Piggery Wastewater Using a 3-Stage Vermifiltration Process Utilizing Eisenia Fetida Earthworms (M. M. Manyuchi and N. L. Mupoperi)
This paper focuses on an alternative biological method for piggery w a s t e w a t e r t re a t m e n t using the modified single stage vermifiltration process. A 3-stage vermifiltration process was used for piggery wastewater treatment as an alternative and modified biological wastewater treatment technique. Three vermifilters with media which comprised of Eisenia Fetida earthworms, garden soil, sand and quartz stones were used as the filtration media. 09
Brewery Wastewater Treatment Using The Biofilm Carriers’ Technology (M. M. Manyuchi and N. Chikwama)
The brewery industry is one of the major industries in Zimbabwe and the following s t u d y w a s co n d u c t e d to assess the technoeconomic feasibility of reuse of wastewater after treatment using the biofilm that forms on the biocarriers. The malting plant of a certain brewing plant uses up to 350000 cubic meters water a year discharging about 75% of the biologically contaminated w a t e r a s e ff l u e n t w h i c h i s discharged into the ecosystem.
Treatment of municipal sewage sludge is a problem in Zimbabwe. However, if the appropriate waste to energy technologies are applied, sewage plants can generate their own electricity thus minimizing municipalities’ reliance on the already strained national grid. 07
Why we need to keep the fossil fuel and tobacco industries accountable and make them pay
basis in tea estates and these pose an environmental threat due to greenhouse gases emissions yet these presents an opportunity of generation of biomass briquettes.
Integrated Biomass Utilization for Energy Efficiency and Nutrient Recycling Dr. Mercy Manyuchi (Pr. Eng; CEng, MZweIE)
I n t h i s s t u d y, a n assessment of the 13 a v a i l a b l e s o u rc e s of biomass and the associated technologies are given for possible energy efficiency i m p rove m e n t . B i o c h a r , a by product of biomass carbonization was assessed as a potential soil amendment as well as nutrient cycle agent.
Valorization of Corn Sillage through Vermicomposting Dr. Mercy Manyuchi (Pr. Eng; CEng, MZweIE)
In this study, corn sillage was converted to vermicompost and vermiwash t h ro u g h e a r t h wo r m b i o conversion. Eisenia Fetida earthworms loaded at a rate of 2.5 kg/m 2 were used as the vermicomposting media over a period of 30 days in a vermireactor. 14
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Bio treatment of Brewery Wastewater Treatment using Hycura Dr. Mercy Manyuchi (Pr. Eng; CEng, MZweIE)
Sewage Plants’ Potential to Produce Biogas for Electricity Generation-Case Study of the Three Zimbabwe Municipalities
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T h i s s t u d y fo c u s e d o n t h e investigation of bio treatment of brewery wastewater using 11 engineered micro organisms l i ke H y c u ra . B re w e r y wastewater was treated in a 10L tank over a 5 day period with Hycura loadings of 0.05 g/L. The wastewater chemical oxygen demand (COD), biological oxygen demand (BO...
Potential to Produce Biomass Briquettes from Tea Waste Dr. Mercy Manyuchi (Pr. Eng; CEng, MZweIE)
Tea wastes are generated on a daily
Feasibility of using Sewage Sludge Bio char in Treating Municipal Sewage Dr. Mercy Manyuchi (Pr. Eng; CEng, MZweIE)
In this study, activated biochar from municipal sewage sludge was used for the treatment of sewage wastewater. The sewage physicochemical parameters were measured before and after bio filtration with biochar applying the principle of adsorption using the standard methods. 15
Solid Fuel Production from Landfill Waste for Promoting Sustainable Development in Africa Dr. Mercy Manyuchi (Pr. Eng; CEng, MZweIE)
In the present study, the potential to produce bio pellets from organic landfill waste was investigated as a strategy to promote sustainability of landfills as well as provision of alternative clean energy source. Organic waste was first shredded then compacted to pellets. 16