Action Aid Zimbabwe has sounded the alarm, urging the government to enforce existing laws designed to protect and preserve the nation’s wetlands.
This plea comes in the lead-up to the 15th Conference of the Parties (COP15) to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, set to take place in Victoria Falls from July 23 to 31 under the theme, Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future.
The conference underscores an urgent reality: wetlands are disappearing at an alarming rate three times faster than forests compromising vital ecosystems that millions depend on.
In a recent statement ActionAid has noted that unauthorized activities have severely undermined the functionality of these habitats, leaving communities increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
“The loss of wetlands poses significant challenges. These ecosystems are struggling to function effectively, and without intervention, the consequences will be dire for those who rely on them,” the organization stated, highlighting their crucial roles in water management, flood mitigation, and biodiversity support.
While commending the government for establishing a robust framework of laws, including the Environmental Management Act and the National Wetland Policy, ActionAid emphasized the critical need for effective enforcement. Zimbabwe has been a party to the Ramsar Convention since May 2013, demonstrating its commitment to wetland conservation yet action on the ground remains lacking.
The call to action extends beyond policy; it urges the government to tackle illegal settlements encroaching on wetlands and provide alternative solutions for displaced communities. Empowering agencies like the Environmental Management Agency is essential for safeguarding these vital ecosystems.
In parallel, the Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association has echoed these concerns, advocating for collaborative efforts among stakeholders to overcome institutional challenges that impede conservation.
“Wetlands are vital for people and nature,” they asserted. “Let’s protect these ecosystems before it’s too late.”
