Ecologist Mutende Simwanza has raised alarm over the detrimental effects of urbanisation on biodiversity in cities like Kitwe and Lusaka, attributing the phenomenon to the widespread destruction of natural habitats driven by urban development.
In an interview with Flava News, Mr. Simwanza highlighted the adverse consequences of urban expansion on forest and wetland ecosystems within urban communities, resulting in the loss of essential habitats and subsequent extinction of native flora and fauna species.
He emphasised the role of pollution in exacerbating biodiversity loss in urban areas, particularly as rural-to-urban migration fuels rapid settlement expansion, leading to increased air and water pollution. Mr. Simwanza cited examples such as the Copperbelt towns, where pollution from mining activities has directly impacted the ecological balance over the years.
Mr. Simwanza underscored the complexity of urbanisation dynamics in cities like Kitwe and Lusaka, influenced by the extent of urban growth and land use planning, which in turn shape social dynamics and environmental impacts.
