Story by Memory Chamisa
PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa is expected to lead conversations around wetlands preservation, as the country is set to host the 15th Conference of Parties on Wetlands (COP15) in Victoria Falls from July 23 to July 31.
With wetland ecosystems facing mounting pressure worldwide, the Ramsar COP15 presents a critical opportunity to accelerate action and investment towards the protection and restoration of these vital ecosystems for the benefit of people and the planet.
Set to become only the second African country to host this prestigious international environmental event, Zimbabwe is gearing up to welcome the world as it opens its borders for the conference.
The gathering is expected to attract around 1 500 delegates, with representatives from over 170 countries already registered.
“We are excited as the conference draws near and we have seen an overwhelming registration process with over 1 500 having been accredited as of today. This conference not only puts Zimbabwe on the map but Africa as a whole. All logistics are in place and we just polishing up a few touch-ups on accommodation and transport,” the Deputy Director of Communications and Advocacy in the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Ms Joyce Chapungu said.
The government highlighted some of the key aspects of the conference in relation to Zimbabwe’s wetlands.
“This moment is more than a meeting, it is a global milestone. A chance to turn promises into policies, and ambitions into action. The scale of wetland loss is a global concern, one we can no longer afford to ignore. As wetlands disappear, the impacts are far-reaching. The upcoming conference will spotlight these urgent challenges, while also offering solutions to reverse the decline,” Ms Chapungu said.
As climate risks intensify, investment and protection of wetlands have been cited as critical for building climate and economic resilience that supports sustainable livelihoods, agriculture and tourism.
The Second Republic, under the stewardship of President Mnangagwa, launched the National Wetlands Policy in 2020, which aims to ensure the protection of wetlands and promote their sustainable use.
