MILLICENT HUNGWE
The Environmental Management Agency (EMA), in partnership with local authorities and stakeholders is training Environment Subcommittees, in the districts of Chivi, Bikita and Zaka, as part of an ongoing program to improve the sustainable management and utilisation of natural resources.
In a bold step towards grassroots environmental stewardship, EMA has rolled out comprehensive training for Environment Subcommittees, structures established in terms of the Rural District Councils Act.
Masvingo Provincial Environmental Management Authority (EMA) education and publicity officer, Munyaradzi Mtisi told The Midweek Watch that these ward subcommittees are mandated to manage natural resources and promote sustainable utilisation practices within their respective wards.
The initiative is being implemented across multiple districts in Masvingo Province, namely Chivi, Bikita and Zaka.
“The training is part of a broader project funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF-7) facility, which aims to enhance environmental governance and support the work of ward-level structures.
“We trained them so that they are able to be efficient on the duties they are supposed to carry out. The project is also coming in to support the work being done by Environment Subcommittees at ward level,” said Mtisi.
Each Environment Subcommittee includes an Environment Monitor, who acts as secretary and is responsible for compiling and reporting all environmental issues occurring in the ward. These reports are submitted quarterly to EMA, the Rural District Council, the District Development Coordinator (DDC), and other relevant departments, including the Forestry Commission.
The reporting structure ensures accountability and communication from the ground going up. The subcommittee submits its report to the ward councillor, who serves as the subcommittee’s chairperson. From there, the report is passed on to the district’s Environment Committee and ultimately to the full council, where key decisions are made.
This ward-level focus strengthens community involvement and responsiveness to local environmental challenges, helping to build a more resilient and sustainably managed natural resource base.
Through training, monitoring, and coordinated reporting, EMA is ensuring that communities not only understand their environmental responsibilities but are also equipped to take action—creating a sustainable legacy for generations to come.
