Monavale Wetland under threat as MPs allegedly allocated residential stands

One of Zimbabwe’s most ecologically significant wetlands, Monavale Wetland, is facing renewed pressure after reports that 23 Members of Parliament were allocated residential stands within the protected ecosystem. Also known as Monavale Vlei, the wetland is one of only seven sites in Zimbabwe designated under the Ramsar Convention as a Wetland of International Importance, a status meant to safeguard it from development.

Human rights lawyer Douglas Coltart said the land allocations raise serious environmental and governance concerns, particularly given Zimbabwe’s leadership role in the global wetlands treaty framework.

“It is deeply concerning that such allocations are being made on a protected wetland, especially at a time when Zimbabwe is expected to uphold international conservation standards,” Coltart said.

The alleged allocations form part of a broader 2025 government programme in which the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works distributed around 70 residential stands to legislators across Harare, Goromonzi, and Zvimba. Local authorities, including Harare City Council, were reportedly instructed to identify low-density land in affluent northern suburbs such as Borrowdale, Marlborough, Greystone Park, and Mabelreign.

Environmental experts warn that any development on Monavale could have far-reaching consequences for Harare’s water security. The wetland forms part of the Manyame catchment basin, which supplies water to the capital and surrounding towns.

“Wetlands act as natural water filters and reservoirs. Disturbing them compromises both water quality and supply,” said environmentalist Farai Maguwu.

According to the Conservation Society of Monavale (COSMO), which has managed the wetland since 2005, Monavale plays a vital role in groundwater recharge, biodiversity conservation, and flood control.

In response to the allocations, COSMO, together with the Harare Wetlands Trust and concerned residents, lodged formal appeals with the Minister of Environment on 17 December 2025. The groups argue that allocating residential stands on a protected wetland violates both national environmental laws and Zimbabwe’s obligations under the Ramsar Convention.

Environmental lawyer Sharon Hofisi said the case could set a precedent.

“If developments are allowed to proceed on a Ramsar site, it undermines the entire legal framework protecting wetlands in Zimbabwe,” he said.

Monavale is not the only wetland under threat. Rapid urban expansion in Harare has seen several wetlands degraded or converted into residential and commercial developments.

Urban planner Percy Toriro said enforcement remains a major challenge.

“We have strong environmental laws on paper, but weak implementation. Political interference often overrides planning regulations,” he said.

Residents in nearby suburbs have also raised concerns about increased flooding and water shortages linked to wetland degradation.

Conservationists are now calling for full disclosure of the allocation process and immediate suspension of any developments on Monavale. They argue that protecting wetlands is essential not only for environmental sustainability but also for long-term urban resilience. As pressure mounts, the government faces a critical test: balancing housing demands with its environmental commitments at both national and international levels.

Monavale Wetland Zimbabwe