As the world unites to commemorate #World_Wetlands_Day under the theme “Wetlands and Human Wellbeing,” the Zambia Climate Change Network draws attention to the critical state of our wetlands, particularly the endangered Lukanga, Bangweulu and Busanga wetlands among others.
Wetlands, often referred to as the Earth’s kidneys, play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance, providing a habitat for diverse flora and fauna, and regulating water cycles. However, our wetlands, the once thriving ecosystems, now find themselves endangered due to human activities which include agriculture, urban development, and pollution.
The theme “Wetlands and Human Wellbeing” underscores the link between the health of wetlands and the prosperity of communities. As we celebrate World Wetlands Day, it is imperative that we acknowledge the symbiotic relationship between wetlands and our overall wellbeing.
In the face of these challenges, community leadership emerges as a powerful force for change. Local communities, intimately connected to these wetlands, possess invaluable traditional knowledge and a vested interest in their preservation. It is crucial to empower and involve these communities in the decision-making processes regarding wetland management, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility.
The Ministries of Green Economy and Ministry of Green Economy and Environment – Zambia, Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation, @Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources Zambia, as well as Local Government and Rural Development, must collaborate to implement robust policies that prioritize wetland conservation and sustainable use.Ministry of Green Economy and Environment – Zambia, Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation, @M
We call upon our national leaders to take decisive action in safeguarding these threatened wetlands. Ministries of Ministry of Green Economy and Environment – Zambia, Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation, @Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, as well as Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development-Zambia, must collaborate to implement robust policies that prioritize wetland conservation and sustainable use.
The Lukanga and Bangweulu wetlands are not only national treasures but also global assets, contributing significantly to the fight against climate change and the protection of biodiversity. Their degradation poses a severe threat to our collective future. Therefore, we consider this a time bomb that demands immediate attention and concrete action.
It is time for every citizen, community, and leader to commit to preserving these vital ecosystems for future generations. The protection of our wetlands is not merely an environmental necessity but a fundamental commitment to the wellbeing of humanity.