BY STAFF REPORTER
A groundbreaking report launched at the 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (COP15) in Victoria Falls emphasizes the vital role wildlife species play in sustaining Africa’s wetlands.
The report, “Africa Special Report: Taking Animals into Account,” urges governments to incorporate animal-driven ecological processes into their wetland restoration and management strategies.
Magnus Sylvén, GRA director of Science-Policy-Practice, describes the report as an “invaluable resource” for those implementing the Ramsar Convention. “By recognising the fundamental ecological role of wild animals, we will become better at managing and restoring the world’s inland and coastal wetlands,” he said.
The report highlights the alarming decline of wetlands and freshwater species, with an estimated 3.4 million square kilometers of inland wetlands lost globally since 1700.
Nearly one-third of freshwater fish species face extinction. James Isiche, IFAW regional director for Africa, stressed the link between wetland preservation and broader climate and biodiversity goals.
“Protecting and restoring these dynamic ecosystems is essential to building climate resilience, conserving biodiversity, and ensuring a future where animals and people thrive together.”
The report showcases 11 case studies from across Africa, demonstrating the importance of healthy wild animal populations for ecosystem services. The researchers identified five key messages, including the need to establish effective no-take fishing zones, ensure the “flow” of water and wildlife in large-scale landscapes, and combat unsustainable use of key wetland species.
The Africa Regional Group reached a consensus in support of a draft resolution on achieving equitable governance and effective conservation of wetlands. They emphasized the need to balance conservation efforts with socio-economic development and to uphold the rights of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities.
