Wetlands Now Off-Limits to Developers Without Full EIA

The Government has banned construction and land clearing on wetlands unless a full environmental impact assessment (EIA) has been approved by the Environmental Management Agency (EMA).

The decision was formalised through a Government Gazette notice.

Environment, Climate and Wildlife Minister Evelyn Ndlovu has officially declared all mapped wetlands as protected, ecologically sensitive areas under the Environmental Management Act. The notice reads:

“It is hereby notified that the Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife has, in terms of sections 113(1) and 140 of the Environmental Management Act, declared the mapped wetlands in the attached schedule protected ecologically-sensitive areas.”

The declaration bars local authorities from selling land or approving developments on wetlands and gives enforcement agencies the power to demolish illegal structures.

The Government said detailed maps of all wetlands would be available at EMA offices, adding that no development would be allowed to proceed without a valid environmental impact assessment (EIA) certificate.

Wetlands play a critical role in sustaining water supplies, biodiversity and local livelihoods. They recharge underground aquifers, regulate river flows and act as natural reservoirs, ensuring communities have reliable access to water.

By absorbing excess rainfall like sponges, wetlands also help reduce the risk of flooding downstream.

In addition, wetlands store carbon at a rate up to three times faster than forests, making them an important natural defence against climate change.

Many local communities depend on wetlands for farming, grazing, fishing and cultural practices.

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