Harare, Zimbabwe | The ban on fishing activities at Lake Chivero will remain in place until the Health and Child Care Ministry completes its investigations, the Government has confirmed.
This decision follows a recent incident where pollution in the lake led to the death of wildlife and aquatic life. In addition to the fishing ban, ongoing research is being conducted on biological remediation methods, such as the use of effective microorganisms, to help restore the contaminated areas within the lake.
Environment, Climate and Wildlife Minister Sithembiso Nyoni described the situation at Lake Chivero as critical, urging a comprehensive approach to address pollution and ecological damage in the water body.
“We will collaborate with the Ministry of Health to conduct thorough investigations because our priority is saving lives,” she said.
She also emphasized that the ban would not be lifted until the full scope of the issue was understood and appropriate measures were in place. “A collective approach from the government and all stakeholders is necessary to reverse the current state of affairs at Lake Chivero,” Nyoni added.
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Lake Chivero has faced pollution problems for decades. Studies indicate that the lake has been experiencing eutrophication since the 1960s, caused by high nutrient pollution, which has contributed to toxic algae blooms.
The situation has worsened over time, partly due to the growing population in Harare and the increased discharge of sewage effluent into the lake.
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