Staff Reporter
Rural communities across Zimbabwe are harnessing wetlands to enhance agricultural productivity and sustain livelihoods, thanks to the effective implementation of the Zimbabwe National Wetlands Policy and Wetlands Management Guidelines.
The restoration and protection of wetlands is not only supporting smallholder farming but also strengthening climate change resilience for thousands of rural households.
Under the Second Republic, Government has prioritized environmental protection, leading to the successful rehabilitation of over 300 000 hectares of wetlands, according to the Environmental Management Agency (EMA).
EMA’s Education and Publicity Manager, Amkela Sidange, emphasized the significance of wetlands in addressing environmental challenges.
“We are looking at wetlands as a vital component of the ecosystem. Wetlands are part of the solution to pollution, biodiversity loss, and climate change,” said Sidange.
Wetlands conservation is also being promoted by local environmental organizations, including Monavale Vlei, whose manager, Dorothy Wakeling, stressed the need for stronger awareness campaigns.
“World Wetlands Day is important as it helps raise awareness on wetland protection. If we fail to protect wetlands, we will worsen climate change and water scarcity,” she noted.
The rehabilitation of wetlands has played a key role in securing water sources, enabling year-round farming, and preserving biodiversity.
One successful example is the Kasibo Garden in Hwange, where local farmers are reaping the benefits of sustainable wetland management.
For rural farmers like Newton Murimbika from Makonde, wetlands are essential for food security and livestock survival.
“Wetlands are good for us. They provide essential support to the survival of our crops and livestock,” said Murimbika.
Makonde Ward 4 Councilor, Anyway Murisa, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the ecological importance of wetlands.
“Wetlands are very important because they help protect biodiversity and play a crucial role in the rainfall cycle,” he said.
President Mnangagwa has called for enhanced protection of wetlands, reinforcing the country’s commitment to preserving natural resources for sustainable development.
The ongoing efforts to restore and manage wetlands not only protect ecosystems but also provide critical resilience tools for rural communities, helping to reduce poverty and secure livelihoods in the face of climate change.
