CONTINUED DEGRADATION OF WETLANDS IN ZAMBIA, A TIME BOMB-ZCCN

CONTINUED DEGRADATION OF WETLANDS IN ZAMBIA, A TIME BOMB-ZCCN


By Alfonso Kasongo
Collaborative actions are a must  to implement robust policies that prioritize wetland conservation and sustainable use, a membership - based organization existing as civil society national platform whose strategic thrust is on climate change justice and sustainable development in Zambia has  observed.

"Our wetlands, the once thriving ecosystems, now find themselves endangered due to human activities which include agriculture, urban development, and pollution among others," the Zambia Climate Change Network (ZCCN) has said.

ZCCN says it  is concerned about the states of most wetlands in Zambia warning that their continued degradation poses a severe threat to the collective future,hence should be considered a time bomb that needs serious immediate collaborative attention and action.


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.

The Network says that the protection of the wetlands is not merely an environmental necessity but a fundamental commitment to the wellbeing of humanity adding that it is  concerned about the state of  the endangered Wetlands such Lukanga, Bangweulu and Busanga wetlands among others.

It explains that 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. 

"It is time for every citizen, community, and leader to commit to preserving these vital ecosystems for future generations," the Network emphasised.

"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."

Meanwhile ZCCN observes that this year's World Wetlands Day theme, "Wetlands and Human Wellbeing" underscores the link between the health of wetlands and the prosperity of communities.

Therefore, it underscores the importance of the theme saying it is imperative that stakeholders especially the communities,government and CSOs acknowledge the symbiotic relationship between wetlands and the overall wellbeing.


The Network, therefore, recommends that community leadership emerges as a powerful force for change explaining that local communities which are intimately connected to these wetlands, possess invaluable traditional knowledge and a vested interest in their preservation.

It further proposes the need to empower and involve the communities in the decision-making processes regarding wetland management as this will foster a sense of ownership and responsibility.






 
 

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