Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya, Beitbridge Bureau
THE United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Zimbabwe, in collaboration with the Government and local communities, is spearheading several initiatives aimed at restoring wetlands across the country.
The programme includes, among other efforts, the use of nature-based solutions to protect biodiversity, rehabilitate degraded ecosystems and empower local communities.
In a statement on Wednesday, UNDP Zimbabwe reported that restoration efforts have already been implemented in areas such as Binga, Midlands, Mbire, and the urban wetlands of Harare, among others.
Tree planting and wetland restoration have become central to UNDP’s environmental work. In partnership with communities and the Government, reforestation projects in Hurungwe, Mbire and Muzarabani are reversing land degradation and enhancing ecosystem services.
“UNDP’s initiatives are demonstrating that wetlands are not wastelands. They are engines of resilience, livelihoods, and climate adaptation,” said the agency.
The UNDP also revealed that a total of 1 206 beekeepers — comprising 723 men and 483 women — are being supported through the programme, along with two honey processing centres.
“In addition, 4 371kg of honey were harvested during the first 2021 flow season, while 264 460 trees were planted across approximately 149 hectares, supported by 56 000 seedlings from community nurseries,” the statement read.
In Harare’s Monavale Vlei, over 120 indigenous wetland plant species have been reintroduced and more than 230 bird species have been recorded.
In the Masibinta Wetland in Binga, 13 hectares have been protected and rehabilitated, with a 1 895-seedling nursery established.
In Shurugwi and Zvishavane, the programme has led to the protection of nine wetlands covering 237 hectares. Additionally, 11 solar-powered boreholes have been installed, benefitting over 2 200 people — 63 percent of whom are women.
“Wetlands are buzzing with potential. The UNDP is supporting community beekeeping in Mbire District, a venture that safeguards ecosystems while promoting sustainable jobs and resilient livelihoods,” said Ms Selina Chitape, director of the Zimbabwe Apiculture Trust.
The UNDP’s beekeeping initiative integrates conservation with livelihoods — restoring ecosystems while generating income for rural communities. Under this model, beehives have even been used as “bio-fences” along elephant corridors, helping to reduce human-wildlife conflict and promote environmental stewardship.
Dr Ayodele Odusola, UNDP Zimbabwe’s Resident Representative, underscored the importance of wetlands to community well-being.
“From honey harvests to restored forests, nature-based solutions are our best defence against climate shocks. When we invest in nature, nature invests back in us. Wetlands are life — and UNDP will continue to ensure these ecosystems sustain both people and the planet well into the future.”
