Story by Memory Chamisa
Government has reaffirmed its commitment to raising national and global awareness as well as to encourage actions to conserve and restore Wetlands.
With the world set to descend on Zimbabwe for the 15th Conference of Contracting Parties (Cop15) to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in the resort city of Victoria Falls, their significance can never be over emphasised.
Wetlands serve as natural sponges, absorbing excess water during floods and releasing it slowly during dry periods thereby helping mitigate the impact of climate change-induced disasters.
Not only are they vital for human survival but also act as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and helping to mitigate global warming.
Environment, Climate and Wildlife Minister Dr Sithembiso Nyoni highlighted the significance of Zimbabwe as a host based on the tremendous work the country has done on wetlands conservation.
“The significance of COP15 extends beyond mere dialogue; it represents a global platform for fostering international cooperation and innovation in wetland conservation. As we approach this important event, it is crucial to recognise the roles of stakeholders in sustainable wetlands management. The outcomes of COP15 will have far-reaching implications for the future of wetlands worldwide, and we encourage all stakeholders to engage actively in this critical discourse.
“Together, we can forge a path toward sustainable management and protection of wetlands, ensuring their survival for generations to come. At this point, I want to appeal to the media to take the challenge and help spread information on the importance of wetlands conservation and biodiversity and their role in mitigating and reversing the impacts of climate change and to warn citizens about the negative impacts that await mankind as a result of their massive deterioration.”
Dr Nyoni also reiterating government’s commitment to the protection and sustainable utilisation of wetlands by putting in place robust strategies as included in the National Development Strategy One (NDS1) to halt and reverse their loss and restore ecosystem goods.
“As a country, we are deeply committed to the conservation of our wetland ecosystems and recognise their crucial role in sustaining biodiversity and supporting local communities. It is our unwavering ambition to facilitate the designation of additional wetlands as Ramsar Sites. By doing so, we aim to enhance global awareness of these critical habitats and ensure their protection for future generations, thereby contributing to the sustainable development of Zimbabwe’s natural resources.
“This year we are commemorating World Wetlands Day under the theme “Protecting Wetlands for a Common Future” highlighting the urgent need for decisive action to safeguard these invaluable natural habitats. This theme emphasises the importance of collective responsibility in preserving wetlands not only for the current population but also for future generations. It is imperative that we recognise and act upon the vital role wetlands play in sustaining life and promoting environmental health, ensuring a shared future where both people and nature can flourish.”
Government has since mapped all wetlands in the country, with a National Wetlands Policy and Wetlands Management Guidelines having being launched 2022.
Meanwhile, Victoria Falls has since been named among 31 world wetland cities.
In a statement released from the ongoing Ramsar SC64 meeting in Gland, Switzerland, Victoria Falls has been accredited as a wetland city.
Zimbabwe ratified the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands on 11 February 2012 and has since designated seven wetlands as wetlands of international importance (Ramsar Sites).
The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands is the only International Treaty focused on the sustainable management of wetlands and it provides a platform to 172 Contracting Parties working together for wetlands conservation and wise use.
