Zimbabwe is strengthening its water management by conserving wetlands near major water reservoirs, local media reported on Monday.

Minister of Environment and Tourism Francis Nhema was quoted as saying that water conservation would be one of the five issues to be focused on the Fourth World Water Forum to be held in Mexico next year.

"We have done a lot so far through the establishment of parks and botanical gardens close to water sources in our efforts to protect water sources. This has worked in a big way but we need to continue monitoring and enhancing our efforts."

Nhema said the management and protection of water sources was vital as people derived food in the form of fish.

"We hope to create employment by allowing controlled fishing and hence alleviate poverty and improve people's nutritional value, " he said.

The Fisheries Department was conducting investigations on the status of lakes with a view to introduce a variety of new breeds of fish in January next year, he said.

He said in line with the world forum's objectives, his ministry had come up with risk management mechanisms in the areas of water pollution and the destruction of noxious weeds without endangering the water species.

The World Water Forum is the world's largest multi-stakeholder platform in the water sector in which thousands of water experts, decision makers, government officials and civil society representatives debate and develop solutions to address the growing water crisis.

Water experts from Zimbabwe are expected to attend the Fourth World Water Forum to be held in Mexico.

Source: Xinhua