Zimpapers Logo

On February 2 each year, Zimbabwe joins the rest of the world in commemorating the World Wetlands Day. This day marks the date of the adoption of the Convention on Wetlands on February 2, 1971, in the Iranian city of Ramsar. The treaty became commonly known as the Ramsar Convention.

What are wetlands?

Wetlands are areas of land that are flooded with water, either seasonally or permanently.

Types of wetlands

(a) Inland wetland types:

Marshes, ponds, lakes, fens, rivers, flood plains and swamps.

(b) Coastal wetland types:

Mangroves, salt-water marshes, estuaries, lagoons — even coral reefs.

The Environmental Management Act (CAP 20:27) however, goes on to define wetlands as: “Areas of marsh, fern, peat-land or water, whether natural or artificial, permanent or temporary, with water that is static or flowing, fresh, brackish or salt, including riparian and adjacent to the wetland.”

Common names of Wetlands found in Zimbabwe

Common names of wetlands in Zimbabwe are:

Matoro (Shona).

Mapani (Shona).

Amaxhaphozi (Ndebele)

Designated Ramsar sites

in Zimbabwe

In accordance to the Ramsar Convention, A total of seven (7) sites have been designated as “Ramsar protected wetlands” covering 28 582.40ha and these are as follows:

Victoria Falls.

Driefontein Grasslands.

Lake Chivero.

Middle Zambezi/Mana Pools.

Chinhoyi caves.

MonavaleVlei and

Cleveland Dam

Zimbabwe is a signatory to this treaty hence it is mandated to protect and treat wetlands as special habitats for various forms of plants, birds and animals.

Moreover, Zimbabwe together with other 168 contracting parties have committed themselves to; work towards the wise use of all their wetlands, designate suitable wetlands for the list of Wetlands of International Importance (the “Ramsar List”) and ensure their effective management and co-operate internationally on trans-boundary wetlands, shared wetland systems and shared species.

What is the mission of the Ramsar Convention?

The Convention’s mission is “the conservation and wise use of all wetlands through local and national actions and international cooperation, as a contribution towards achieving sustainable development throughout the world”.

Wetlands are among the most diverse and productive ecosystems. They provide essential services and supply all our fresh water. However, they continue to be degraded and converted to other uses.

What is the theme for 2015?

The theme for World Wetlands Day 2015 is “Wetlands for our future — Join Us”. The theme provides an ideal opportunity to highlight that the future of humanity depends on wetlands.

What does the law say

about Wetlands?

Wetlands in Zimbabwe are protected by law and authority for their utilisation may be granted by EMA.

Join with others and make a difference!!! Get involved in World Wetlands Day

Please talk to us. We are always ready to listen. Email [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]> or call us on 04 305543/ Toll free 08080028, whatsapp 0779565707.