Mphanda Nkuwa Dam, Mozambique / In the Medias

(Maputo) Mozambican environmentalists opposition to the construction of a new hydroelectric project on the Zambezi River near the giant Cahora Bassa is increasing. The future dam, named Mepanda Nkuwa, would require an investiment of about US$1.2 billion and is considered by the Government to be crucial to supply energy to grand enterprises to be built in Mozambique.

Winding its way through Zambia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique, the Zambezi River is a prized resource. Its waters provide fisheries, tourism, and increasingly, electricity. But as Frederico Katere reports, Mozambique’s attempt to dam the river is pushing environmentalists into deep end.Despite advice from environmentalists and scientists that the construction of another hydroelectric dam on the Zambezi River will intensify flooding, the Mozambican government has decided to go ahead with the project.

WASHINGTON, Dec 5, 2001 (Inter Press Service via COMTEX) –– An expected surge in world demand for energy–intensive aluminum products could fuel construction of environmentally ruinous dams from the Amazon to Mozambique, activists warn.

Demand for cans and a host of other aluminum products is being driven by population growth and international trade.