Zanzibar Suspends Construction Permits in Water Catchment Areas

Zanzibar authorities have suspended the issuance of construction permits in areas identified as water sources and natural drainage channels, The Guardian (IPP Media) reports. Second Vice-President Hemed Suleiman Abdulla issued the directive during an inspection tour of rainwater drainage channels in various areas of Urban West 'A' District, Unguja, where he identified challenges that could worsen flooding in residential areas.

The Second Vice-President said unplanned construction in water catchment areas was among the factors disrupting natural water flow, and that encroachment on drainage channels was likely to expose communities to flooding and damage to property. He said those issuing construction permits must exercise greater caution and ensure no permits are issued in hazardous areas before proper assessments are conducted, so the government can be satisfied that developments are safe and will not increase flood risk.

Such assessments, he said, should establish whether proposed developments would interfere with water flow or drainage systems, or threaten the safety of people living in surrounding areas. "District authorities should closely monitor construction activities taking place in their areas and take action against those building in water catchment areas," Abdulla said, adding that the government would not allow construction to compromise natural drainage systems, particularly in areas that regularly experience heavy rainfall.

The vice-president called for stronger coordination within district authorities, spanning land-use planning, environmental management and construction control departments, to ensure development activities comply with regulations. He also said residents should be educated on the importance of building in safe areas and leaving sufficient space for drainage channels and access routes needed for rescue operations during floods or other disasters.

Residents, he added, need to take greater responsibility for protecting drainage infrastructure by avoiding activities that block or damage water channels, and by participating in environmental cleanliness such as removing waste from streets to ensure rainwater flows properly. Blocked drainage systems, he warned, increase the likelihood of flooding in neighbourhoods and other public areas, while clear drains reduce the risk of diseases linked to stagnant water, accumulated waste and contaminated water after heavy rains.

He stressed that authorities should not wait for heavy rains before acting, but should identify potential risks and address them as part of routine environmental management. The directive comes as authorities prepare communities for periods of heavy rainfall, with local governments expected to strengthen monitoring of flood-prone areas and keep drainage systems functional.