Harare residents have issued an urgent appeal to the government, demanding the swift enactment of more robust environmental laws. This call is critical for safeguarding the Upper Manyame Catchment area and, crucially, Lake Chivero, which serves as the capital's primary water source, from escalating pollution levels. This significant appeal was made during the launch of the 'Save Lake Chivero Campaign' in Harare, where various residents' groups voiced grave concerns over unchecked industrial waste and inadequate enforcement, which they contend are systematically destroying the rivers, dams, and lakes within the catchment.

Marvellous Kumalo, Chairperson of the Harare Metropolitan Residents Forum (HAMREF), underscored the vital need to empower local communities. He stated that communities must be given an active role in monitoring pollution and ensuring accountability from offenders. Kumalo emphasized that the government must prioritize the creation of laws that delegate power to communities, enhance oversight mechanisms, and guarantee sustainable environmental management. He further highlighted that the campaign advocates for a 'no to pollute and relocate' approach, asserting that Lake Chivero, officially recognized as a Ramsar site, warrants protection at all costs.

Reuben Akili, Director of the Combined Harare Residents Association (CHRA), issued a stark warning regarding the alarming escalation of pollution in the catchment area. He specifically pointed to the Mukuvisi River, a vital tributary, which is now severely contaminated with industrial waste, agrochemicals, mercury, and even traces of cyanide. Akili presented research indicating that existing environmental laws are fragmented and suffer from inconsistent enforcement, noting a lack of alignment between the Water Act and the Environmental Management Act. He further criticized both the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) and local authorities, accusing them of failing to enforce regulations. Akili revealed that over 300 industries are currently operating without essential waste pre-treatment facilities, directly contravening environmental legislation.

Akili also shed light on the problematic application of the 'polluter pays' principle, arguing that industries have been treating fines merely as a 'cost of doing business,' thereby perpetuating their polluting activities. He contended that, under the current system, it is often more economically viable for these industries to violate the law than to comply with environmental standards. As part of its commitment to the campaign, CHRA announced plans to mobilize communities, initiate litigation against polluters, and exert pressure on the government to enact comprehensive reforms in water governance. Akili concluded by emphasizing the profound implications of the crisis, stating, "This is no longer just about dirty rivers. It's about whether Harare will still have clean drinking water in the years ahead."