The Zambian government is taking a decisive step towards safeguarding its vital wetland ecosystems. Recognizing the critical role these natural treasures play in the country’s socio-economic development, the government is developing comprehensive guidelines for their sustainable utilization, with a planned launch later this year.

Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Sylvia Masebo, underscored the urgency of this initiative during the recent World Wetlands Day commemoration in Lusaka. “These ecosystems are under siege,” she declared, citing a litany of threats, including pollution, rampant deforestation, invasive species, and the encroachment of human settlements.

Zambia boasts eight internationally recognized wetlands, including the renowned Kafue Flats and the vast Bangweulu Swamps, designated as Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention. These ecosystems provide invaluable services, from water purification and flood control to supporting biodiversity and sustaining local livelihoods. However, these vital ecosystems are facing unprecedented pressure.

The forthcoming guidelines will serve as a crucial roadmap for mitigating these threats. They will provide a framework for sustainable wetland management, outlining best practices for conservation, restoration, and wise use. Minister Masebo emphasized the need for a multi-pronged approach, involving government agencies, local communities, and all relevant stakeholders in a collective effort to safeguard these precious resources for future generations.

This initiative reflects Zambia’s commitment to environmental sustainability. By strengthening environmental governance and promoting sustainable land use practices, the government aims to ensure that these vital ecosystems continue to provide essential services to the country and its people.

The development of these guidelines marks a significant step forward in Zambia’s journey towards environmental stewardship. By embracing sustainable practices and fostering a deeper understanding of the importance of wetlands, the country can safeguard these invaluable ecosystems for generations to come.