Online Reporter
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa is today expected to officially open the 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties to the Convention on Wetlands (COP15) in Victoria Falls, a landmark event for Zimbabwe and the global environmental community.
The historic gathering marks the first time in the 55-year history of the Ramsar Convention that a head of state will open the conference, accompanied by other foreign heads of state and deputy heads of state in a Presidential summit.
The conference is being held under the theme: “Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future.”
The theme emphasises the urgent need for global collaboration to preserve these critical ecosystems.
COP15 is expected to catalyse three major shifts in wetland conservation that include the Victoria Falls Declaration, Integration of Wetlands into National Policies and Technological Innovation.
As delegates gather beneath the majestic Victoria Falls, the world’s attention turns to Zimbabwe’s leadership in environmental stewardship.
The outcomes of this conference will shape global efforts to protect wetlands, combat climate change, and safeguard biodiversity for future generations.
Our Victoria Falls Reporter Rutendo Nyeve and Chief Photographer Eliah Saushoma will be giving us live updates from the event.
City of Victoria Falls to receive Ramsar Wetland City accreditation certificate at COP15
THE City of Victoria Falls is today set to receive certification for the Ramsar Wetland City accreditation, joining the prestigious list of 31 Ramsar Wetland Cities worldwide, a testament to its unwavering commitment to conserving its vital wetland ecosystems.
The accreditation as a Ramsar Wetland City reflects years of dedication to preserving these critical ecosystems
This was done through enacting local regulations to protect wetlands and engaging communities in conservation programs.
Furthermore, Victoria Falls City has demonstrated that sustainable development and environmental protection go hand in hand.
The city’s approach has been multifaceted, combining policy enforcement with grassroots involvement.
Local regulations have been strengthened to prevent wetland degradation, while educational campaigns have raised awareness about the importance of these ecosystems.
The city has integrated wetland education into school curricula and partnered with organizations like the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) and the Victoria Falls Pristine Society to empower the youth as future conservation leaders.
Community clean-up campaigns and strict anti-littering laws have further safeguarded the wetlands, ensuring they remain pristine for generations to come.
Wetlands, often referred to as the “kidneys of the earth,” play a crucial role in filtering pollutants, regulating climate, and supporting biodiversity.
Globally, wetlands have declined by 35 percent since 1970, a loss rate three times faster than that of forests.
This makes Victoria Falls’ achievement not just a national victory but a beacon of hope for global conservation efforts.
Wetlands are indispensable to achieving several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including clean water (SDG 6), climate action (SDG 13), and life below water and on land (SDGs 14 and 15).
They act as carbon sinks, mitigate flooding, and provide livelihoods for millions.
The Ramsar Convention, supported by over 170 countries, underscores the international commitment to wetland protection, with World Wetlands Day celebrated annually on February 2nd to raise awareness.
Hundreds await President Mnangagwa arrival at Victoria Falls Airport ahead of COP15 opening
HUNDREDS of people have gathered at the Victoria Falls International Airport to welcome President Mnangagwa, who is expected to officially open the 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties to the Convention on Wetlands (COP15).
President Mnangagwa is set to engage and share insights with distinguished delegates, including his regional peers with emphasis on the urgent need for global collaboration to preserve the critical environmental ecosystems.
President Mnangagwa arrives in Victoria Falls ahead of COP15 opening
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has arrived in Victoria Falls ahead of the official opening of the 15th Conference of the Parties (COP15) to the Convention on Wetlands.
The President was warmly welcomed at the Victoria Falls International Airport by Vice President Kembo Mohadi, Matabeleland North Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Richard Moyo, Environment, Climate and Wildlife Minister Dr Evelyn Ndlovu, Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi, Primary and Secondary Education Minister Torerai Moyo, senior Government officials, and service chiefs.
Hundreds of jubilant citizens gathered at the airport to greet the President, cheering and ululating as he stepped off the plane.
The vibrant atmosphere signaled the significance of the event, which has drawn global attention to Zimbabwe’s commitment to wetland conservation.
COP15, hosted here in Victoria Falls, brings together world leaders, environmental experts, and international organisations to discuss sustainable wetland management.
President Mnangagwa is set to deliver the keynote address at the opening ceremony, highlighting Zimbabwe’s leadership in environmental preservation.
The conference marks a historic moment for Victoria Falls, showcasing Zimbabwe’s capacity to host high-profile international events while promoting ecological sustainability.
Matabeleland North takes centre stage in global wetlands conservation
Matabeleland North Province has cemented its position as a key player in global environmental conservation as it hosts the 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP15) to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.
The historic gathering, being held in the iconic city of Victoria Falls, has drawn delegates from across the world to discuss the protection and restoration of wetlands—a critical resource under increasing threat from climate change and human activity.
The province’s warm hospitality was on full display as Matabeleland North Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Richard Moyo, welcomed delegates during the official opening of the conference.
“It is my privilege to welcome you all to Matabeleland North Province, and especially to the iconic city of Victoria Falls
“As the host of this historic 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, we are deeply honored to receive such a diverse and esteemed delegation, united by a common cause—the protection and restoration of the world’s wetlands. As the Minister of State for this beautiful province, I am humbled to host such a prestigious gathering of global minds committed to environmental sustainability,” he said.
He emphasised the province’s unique role in conservation.
“Matabeleland North is home to pristine forests, diverse wildlife, and vibrant communities that live in harmony with nature. It is only fitting that discussions on global environmental significance take place in this setting, where nature still speaks with a mighty voice,” he said.
Minister Moyo also highlighted the province’s vast potential in sustainable development, noting its rich natural resources, renewable energy prospects, and commitment to green infrastructure.
“Matabeleland North offers significant investment opportunities in sustainable agriculture, clean energy, and eco-tourism,” he said.
Delegates were encouraged to explore the province’s natural wonders, including the majestic Victoria Falls—one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World—and Hwange National Park, which hosts one of Africa’s largest elephant populations.
As the conference progresses, Matabeleland North’s role in wetlands conservation and sustainable development continues to shine, reinforcing Zimbabwe’s commitment to global environmental stewardship.
Environment Minister Ndlovu calls for urgent wetlands protection
The Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Dr Evelyn Ndlovu, has amplified calls for global collaboration to address biodiversity loss, climate change, and pollution.
Minister Ndlovu said this while delivering her remarks during the official opening of the 15th Conference of the Parties (COP15) on wetlands conservation.
Speaking under the theme *”Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future,” Dr. Ndlovu emphasised the critical role of wetlands and the need for immediate action.
“As we gather for this crucial event of COP15, I extend my warmest welcome to each and every one of you—global leaders, experts, representatives of regional bodies, and other visitors who have joined us
“I urge you to use this platform to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and collaborate on strategies to address the crisis of biodiversity loss, climate change, and pollution. It is critical that we act now,” she said.
She highlighted the importance of sustainable wetlands management saying indigenous and local communities must be central to conservation efforts.
“Our presence today from across the globe is a testament to our commitment to addressing critical issues around our wetlands. Any wetlands management that does not take on board the role of indigenous and local communities is fatal,” she said.
She called on member states to empower communities through policy and regulation.
“Member states should take the role of communities seriously if we are to succeed. Ours as Governments is to put regulations in place to protect the wetlands,” she said.
She said Zimbabwe’s hosting of COP15 marks a significant milestone, with preparations dating back to 2022.
“As Zimbabwe, we feel greatly honoured to be your host today. We are very grateful to all who made it possible for us to be here,” she said.
Dr Ndlovu expressed optimism, urging delegates to deliver tangible outcomes.
“We have a hard task ahead. I hope we will come up with results that will lead us to protect our wetlands and recover from their loss,” she said.
President calls for urgent action to protect wetlands
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has cemented the critical importance of wetlands in sustaining biodiversity, livelihoods, and climate resilience, calling for urgent collaborative action to protect these vital ecosystems from increasing threats.
President Mnangagwa said this during his keynote address at the official opening of COP 15 in Victoria Falls.
He emphasised the indispensable role wetlands play in supporting life and sustainable development.
“Wetlands, which include swamps, marshes, fens, bogs, estuaries, mangroves, and peatlands, are crucial habitats for about 40 percent of species. They provide a use for more than a billion people. To neglect wetlands would be, or probably, a critical portion of our existence.
“It is in this spirit, therefore, that we think of this contribution across protecting wetlands for our common future, and of course, it is actually timely in its emphasis on the role of wetlands,” he said.
The President said the essential services wetlands provide, such as water purification, flood control, and carbon storage, align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
These benefits, he said, directly address poverty (Goal 1), hunger (Goal 2), clean water (Goal 6), sustainable communities (Goal 11), climate action (Goal 13), and global partnerships (Goal 17).
Despite their significance, wetlands remain among the most threatened ecosystems due to urbanisation, agricultural expansion, and climate change.
President Mnangagwa warned that habitat loss and altered water cycles pose severe risks to both wildlife and human populations.
“In spite of this, wetlands are among the most threatened habitats for nature. They face challenges such as habitat loss and degradation due to urbanization, development, agricultural expansion, and climate change,” he said.
To counter these threats, the President called for a shift in mindset, urging multi-faceted approaches to conservation.
“Now is the time for us to change our mindsets and start implementing collaborative approaches towards protecting our wetlands,” he said.
Key strategies include adopting innovative restoration techniques, strengthening policy frameworks, and enhancing research and monitoring. Sustainable land-use practices, community engagement, and education were also highlighted as crucial steps in fostering stewardship.
Zimbabwe has already taken significant steps by ratifying the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in 2013, demonstrating its commitment to conservation.
However, President Mnangagwa stressed that more must be done to safeguard these ecosystems for future generations.
“Protecting and restoring these vital habitats is key to achieving sustainable development and ensuring the health and stability of our entire environment,” he said.
Eswatini Prime Minister applauds Zimbabwe’s wetlands conservation efforts
Eswatini’s Prime Minister, Russell Dlamini, has commended Zimbabwe for its commitment to wetlands conservation, describing it as a model for regional environmental protection.
Speaking at the 15th Conference of Parties (COP15) of the Ramsar Convention in Victoria Falls, Prime Minister Dlamini highlighted the importance of international cooperation in safeguarding wetlands, which are vital for biodiversity and human livelihoods.
Representing His Majesty King Mswati III, Prime Minister Dlamini praised Zimbabwe’s leadership in hosting the high-level summit, particularly following the successful Transfrontier Conservation Areas Summit.
“The Kingdom of Eswatini fully supports efforts to promote the conservation and wise use of wetlands,” he said.
He emphasised the need for regional collaboration in line with the convention’s theme: “Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future.”
Prime Minister Dlamini outlined Eswatini’s own strides in wetlands preservation, including the adoption of a National Wetlands Policy and a Wetlands Strategy and Action Plan.
These frameworks aim to reverse environmental degradation while supporting sustainable livelihoods.
“One notable example is the Reed Dance (Umhlanga) Festival, a cultural cornerstone that relies on healthy wetlands for reeds used in the ceremony,” he said.
Prime Minister Dlamini extended an invitation to delegates to attend the annual event, underscoring the cultural and ecological interdependence.
He said Eswatini has also witnessed tangible benefits from wetlands restoration, including revival of near-extinct plant species in rural areas, recharged water sources, improving wells and dams as well as economic empowerment through handicrafts, weaving, and sustainable agriculture supported by wetlands.
However, Prime Minister Dlamini warned of growing threats from urbanisation, which has led to wetlands being converted into residential and commercial spaces.
“We must explore innovative construction methods to preserve these critical ecosystems,” he said.
The Prime Minister advocated for stronger partnerships under the newly established Southern Africa Ramsar Regional Initiative, which seeks to enhance transboundary wetlands management.
He also appealed for climate-smart technologies to improve wetlands mapping, protection, and restoration efforts.
“Wetlands must be mainstreamed into global environmental agreements, including climate action and biodiversity frameworks,” he said.
He said 11 of the 23 targets in the Global Biodiversity Framework depend on ecosystem restoration.
As the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021–2030) progresses, Prime Minister Dlamini called for unified action to combat wetlands degradation.
“Zimbabwe and Eswatini stand as examples of what can be achieved through commitment and regional synergy,” he said.
Zimbabwe assumes Presidency of Ramsar COP15
IN a momentous ceremony marked by symbolism and global solidarity, Zimbabwe officially assumed the Presidency of the 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (COP15), taking over from the People’s Republic of China with President Mnangagwa urging the world to act boldly and decisively to safeguard wetlands and urgently address drivers of wetland loss.
The handover was witnessed by President Mnangagwa, at the official opening of COP15 in Victoria Falls on Thursday
The event was graced by high-ranking dignitaries, including the Vice President of Malawi, Dr Michael Bizwick Usi, and the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Eswatini, Russel Mmiso Dlamini.
Also present were representatives from the United Nations, conservation bodies, and indigenous communities, underscoring the global significance of wetland preservation.
The outgoing COP President, Mr Xia Jun of China, formally handed over the Ramsar Convention flag to Zimbabwe, symbolising the transfer of leadership for the next three years.
