By Flata Kavinga
Kwekwe human rights defender Nkosilathi Moyo has petitioned Parliament to investigate the mushrooming of fuel stations near residential areas across the country, citing potential public safety and environmental risks.
In a petition submitted to the Speaker of the National Assembly on November 4, 2026, Moyo is urging Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Environment, Climate and Wildlife to investigate whether the establishment of fuel stations near residential stands, schools and other public facilities complies with environmental, planning and petroleum regulatory requirements.
Moyo said the growing establishment of fuel stations close to residential communities raised concerns about the safety of residents, particularly where proper environmental and regulatory assessments might not have been conducted before construction approvals were granted.
He wants Parliament to establish whether fuel stations are obtaining Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) certificates from the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) before construction and commencing operations.
The petition also calls for an investigation into compliance with licensing, safety and operational standards set by the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA).
Moyo further wants Parliament to examine how local authorities allocate land for fuel stations and residential developments to establish whether the approvals comply with existing laws and regulations.
He cited Section 73 of the Constitution, which guarantees every person the right to an environment that is not harmful to their health or well-being.
He also referred to the Environmental Management Act [Chapter 20:27] and the Petroleum Act [Chapter 13:22], which provide frameworks for environmental assessments and the regulation of petroleum activities.
The petition calls on Parliament to recommend legislative and policy reforms to improve coordination among local authorities, EMA and ZERA, while ensuring that urban planning prioritises public safety and environmental protection.
Moyo said he was submitting the petition in his individual capacity as a concerned citizen seeking accountability, transparency and the protection of communities from potential environmental and public safety hazards.
