16 Megalitres Of Molasses Waste Released Into Cheche, Mutirikwi And Runde Rivers

Triangle Limited, a unit of Tongaat Hulett, is dealing with a major environmental incident after part of its stillage handling ponds collapsed on 27 November, releasing an estimated 16 megalitres of waste liquid into nearby rivers.

The sugar producer, working alongside the Environmental Management Agency (EMA), confirmed that the dark, molasses-based substance flowed into the Cheche, Mutirikwi, and Runde rivers.

Stillage, a by-product of ethanol production derived from molasses, rapidly depletes oxygen in water, creating conditions that can suffocate fish and other aquatic life. Fish deaths have already been reported downstream.

Triangle has suspended its ethanol operations while corrective measures are implemented.

Water quality tests are being carried out at multiple points along the affected rivers.

The company is also containing the spill and working with EMA and local authorities “to protect downstream users.”

Members of the public have been advised not to drink untreated river water or consume fish from the affected sections of the Cheche River downstream of Triangle Mill, the Mutirikwi River from the low-level bridge on Mpapa Road, and the Runde River downstream of the Runde–Mutirikwi confluence.

Triangle United management said that, with support from EMA and the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA), efforts were underway to restore water quality “as quickly as possible.” The company said:

“We apologise for the inconvenience arising out of this unfortunate occurrence and are committed to restoring environmental safety as quickly as possible.”

Members of the public have been urged to report any information or concerns to Triangle’s hotline on 0231336221 or to contact EMA on 08080028.

More: ZimLive