By Pamenus Tuso

The Environmental Management Agency (EMA) has secured a High Court order compelling Chitungwiza Municipality to take measures to prevent the unlawful discharge of raw or untreated sewage into water sources and the environment.

The order, issued on September 30, 2026, under Case No. HCH3235/25 follows an application for a mandatory interdict by EMA after previous engagements, fines and environmental protection orders allegedly failed to prompt action by the local authority.

In a statement, EMA spokesperson Amkela Sidange said the ruling would strengthen the agency’s efforts to ensure compliance with environmental laws and improve waste management by local authorities.

The court interdicted and restrained Chitungwiza Municipality from unlawfully discharging raw or untreated sewage and effluent into any water source, water body or the environment in violation of the Environmental Management Act [Chapter 20:27].

The municipality is also required to take all lawful and reasonably practicable measures within its statutory mandate to prevent such discharges and ensure compliance with applicable environmental standards.

Sidange said the judgment would enable EMA to push for compliance with established mechanisms for managing both solid and liquid waste.

She added that the agency could seek contempt of court proceedings if the municipality continued to disregard the order.

The ruling comes amid growing concerns over sewage pollution in urban water bodies, with EMA indicating that the Chitungwiza case follows a similar court order involving the City of Harare.

According to the agency, the High Court issued an order against Harare on October 2, 2026, under Case No. HCH2610/25, over the unlawful discharge of sewage into the environment.

EMA said monitoring of urban river

s had revealed high nutrient levels associated with raw and partially treated sewage effluent, with some rivers recording phosphate concentrations up to 12 times above permissible limits.

The agency also estimates that about 415 megalitres of raw and partially treated sewage are discharged into the environment daily, posing risks to public health and natural ecosystems.
Sidange said local authorities needed to prioritise effective wastewater management to curb pollution and protect communities and the environment.

“EMA is urging local authorities to adopt best practices in wastewater management and invest in robust liquid waste management systems, with an urgent focus on infrastructure development.” said Sidange.

The agency has repeatedly called for improved sewage treatment and waste management systems as part of broader efforts to address pollution in urban areas and safeguard the country’s water resources.
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