HONOURABLE JOANA MAMOMBE: Thank you very much. Hon. Speaker Sir. Zimbabwe, in 2013, enacted a new Constitution which entrenched Environmental Rights in Section 73,’ every person has the right to have the environment that is protected for the benefit of the present and future generations through reasonable legislative and other measures that prevent pollution, promote conservation and secure ecological sustainable development and use of natural resources.
Now, Hon. Speaker Sir, on Tuesday, Cabinet approved a proposed plan to construct a multi-purpose stadium in Victoria Falls. Hon. Speaker, Victoria Falls is renowned for its natural environment and wildlife. Our tourism industry is heavily reliant on nature-based attractions. Zimbabwe is the third largest country in terms of wildlife resources, that is, rhinos, elephants, and so forth. Why do we recognise the importance of infrastructure development Hon. Speaker?
It is its potential to attract more tourists. We cannot achieve this without disrupting our biodiversity. There are many other cities in Zimbabwe that could host the stadium that has been proposed thereby distributing the economic benefits without sacrificing the environmental integrity. If tourists Hon. Speaker, can travel from South Africa to come and visit Victoria Falls, I am sure they can do the same to travel from other cities to go and visit Victoria Falls. UNESCO heritage status is also at risk as we note that Victoria Falls was previously facing serious risks of loosing the UNESCO world heritage due to the developments that threaten its natural state.
Hon. Speaker, instead, we should explore alternative locations that do not compromise our valuable natural resources and conservation efforts. I, therefore, pray that the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality together with the Minister of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture bring a Ministerial Statement to elaborate on this plan to this august House. Ngatisarasai chiri mumawoko nekuda kuwombera Hon. Speaker Sir. I thank you.