Staff Reporter
A cyanobacterial contamination in Lake Chivero’s water sources has led to the deaths of four rhinos and other wildlife, including zebras, wildebeests, fish eagles, goats, and cattle.
The contamination has sparked growing concerns about environmental management and public health risks.
In a press statement issued by the Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, spokesperson Tinashe Farawo confirmed the deaths, saying efforts to mitigate the crisis, such as providing salt blocks, game nuts, and clean artificial water points had not been enough to prevent animals from drinking from the contaminated lake.
“Despite interventions by veterinarians and experts from the University of Zimbabwe, animals continued to access the contaminated lake, leading to tragic losses,” said Farawo.
The Parks Authority has called for a “whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach” to address the pollution crisis.
Farawo urged the public and authorities to understand the devastating effects of pollution and advocate for improved environmental practices.
Lake Chivero, a Ramsar-listed site and critical water source for Harare, has long faced pollution challenges due to untreated sewage discharge, industrial runoff, and agricultural waste.
Experts argue that the current crisis underscores the need for stricter environmental regulations and sustainable water management practices.
The cyanobacterial outbreak, often associated with harmful algal blooms, has alarmed health experts who warned of its broader environmental and human health implications.
Dr. Patience Gwanetsa, an environmental health specialist, explained that cyanobacteria thrive in nutrient-rich, stagnant water and release toxins harmful to wildlife and humans.
“Cyanotoxins can cause liver and neurological damage if consumed or inhaled over time. This contamination not only threatens biodiversity but also raises concerns for local communities relying on Lake Chivero for water and livelihoods,” said Dr. Gwanetsa.
Another expert, Dr. Tendai Manjoro, an ecologist, emphasised the need for urgent intervention and a coordinated response to mitigate further damage.
“The pollution of Lake Chivero highlights the consequences of poor environmental management. Immediate measures must be implemented to treat the water and prevent further contamination,” Dr. Manjoro stated.
As Zimbabwe prepares to host the Ramsar Convention CoP15 in July next year, the Lake Chivero contamination serves as a stark reminder of the country’s environmental vulnerabilities.
For now, stakeholders are being urged to collaborate to prevent further ecological and health disasters.
