The Parliament of Zimbabwe has launched the “Voices of Zimbabwe on Wetlands” campaign to boost community participation in the protection and sustainable management of wetlands nationwide. This is in preparation for the upcoming Ramsar Convention on Wetlands COP15, scheduled for July 23-31, 2025, in Victoria Falls.
The campaign aims to raise awareness and galvanise action among citizens, communities, and government stakeholders around the importance of wetland preservation. It was inaugurated over the weekend through a guided tour of Harare’s three Ramsar-designated wetlands: Cleveland Dam, Monavale Vlei, and Lake Chivero.
Speaking at the launch, Hon. Sam Matema, Chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Environment, Climate, Tourism and Hospitality Industry, underscored the urgency of adopting an inclusive national approach.
“We must adopt a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach in managing Zimbabwe’s wetlands. Every one of us has a role to play,” said Hon. Matema.
The campaign recognises the value of indigenous knowledge systems in managing wetlands sustainably. Community representatives, such as those from the Mabvuku/Tafara Wetlands Trust near Cleveland Dam, directly shared local experiences and challenges with policymakers.
