The government has started punishing villagers who drill boreholes without first registering with the sub catchments councils with the latest happening under Umguza Rural District Council in Matabeleland North province.
The villagers in the Mbembesi area were slapped with fines of up to US$205, which include a penalty.
Last year, the government threatened to fine people who own boreholes that are unregistered with the Zimbabwe National Water Authority in Upper Gwayi Sub Catchment area in Matabeleland North.
In the latest development, Mbembesi sub catchment council officer, Genius Bunene, wrote a notice dated February 25, 2025, to the villagers advising them of non-compliance to the catchment regulations.
“According to our records, you have been found to either have commenced drilling a borehole or have drilled a borehole before you registered the aforementioned drilling as required by the provisions of SI 291 of 2020 as read with the Water Act Chapter 20:24,” reads the notice to one of the villagers.
“To date you have failed, neglected or refused to comply and therefore we are left with no option but to charge you a penalty fee of US$100 and an application fee of US$55 and a registration fees of US$50 a total amount of US$205 according to the above mentioned Act of law.
“A further failure by you to comply within 14 working days of receiving this letter will result in legal action being taken against you in terms of section 24 of the Water Act Chapter 20:24 and this letter shall be to you a first demand.”
Zinwa spokesperson Merjorie Munyonga said this was being done by the sub catchment councils.
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According to the Water Act (Chapter 20:24) all borehole owners should register their boreholes with Zinwa or the nearest Catchment Council Offices.
All prospective borehole owners should get a permit for the drilling of a borehole from Zinwa or the nearest catchment council office.
