Minister Nyoni Urges Halt to Development on Wetlands, Calls for Stronger Protection Efforts

Honourable Sithembiso Nyoni, Minister of Environment, Climate Change, and Wildlife, has called on local authorities to halt the allocation of residential stands in wetlands to prioritize their preservation. Speaking at the launch of a sustainability monograph at the Large City Hall on Monday, Minister Nyoni underscored the significant flood risks associated with building in these vital ecosystems, warning that such development could displace residents and lead to irreversible environmental harm.

The Minister highlighted the challenges of reversing development once construction has started, urging local authorities to take proactive measures to protect wetlands. She explained that building on these areas inevitably leads to flooding, which not only affects homes but also creates a complex situation for the ministry, as it is left to handle the relocation of impacted residents.

Minister Nyoni concluded by stressing the importance of safeguarding wetlands for future generations, emphasizing their crucial role in flood mitigation, water filtration, and maintaining biodiversity.