The Sunday News
Clinton Moyo, Sunday News Reporter
THE Environmental Management Agency (Ema) has warned of a possible outbreak of water-borne diseases during the rainy season because of poor waste management.
In a statement, Ema said there was a risk of the outbreak of cholera, typhoid and dysentery during the rainy season. Most parts of the country have started receiving rains, which are expected to stretch until March next year.
“The rainy season is almost upon us. It is therefore imperative for all stakeholders to up their efforts in waste management. If waste is not managed properly during the rainy season, it may result in devastating effects which include water pollution which subsequently leads to water-borne diseases such as cholera, typhoid and dysentery. Furthermore, mismanagement of municipal waste can result in the blockage of storm drains which in turn cause flash floods especially in urban areas,” said Ema.
The agency also encouraged citizens to desist from littering.
“During this time of the year, the market will be flooded with various types of foodstuffs such as mazhanje, cooked or roasted green mealies and mangoes, among others. These foodstuffs have a great potential of littering the environment if not handled with care by the users. Therefore, extra effort needs to be taken to ensure that the environment remains clean, despite the changes in the market.”
Ema said it was important to avoid littering during this time due to the fact that it also coincides with the festive season.
“Besides this, the rainy season coincides with the festive season, during which extra waste is generated as a result of the procurements that are related to the festive season. Generally, people spend more during this season and this result in increased waste generation. It then requires individuals to be responsible with the waste they generate, shun throwing litter on the ground and out of vehicles but rather place it in the bin.”
