Uganda marks World Wetlands Day with call for conservation

Uganda on Sunday joined the global community in commemorating World Wetlands Day, marking the 54th anniversary of the signing of the Ramsar Convention in the city of Ramsar, Iran.

This international treaty emphasizes the importance of wetlands and calls for their conservation through sustainable use, known as “Wise Use.”

The Convention defines Wise Use as the sustainable management of wetlands, balancing human benefit with the preservation of natural ecosystems.

In 2015, Uganda's wetland cover stood at 8.9%. By 2021, this figure showed a positive trend, rising to 9.3%, reflecting a 0.4% increase in intact wetland areas.

These figures signify a step forward in the country’s wetland conservation efforts, but challenges remain.

The national celebration of World Wetlands Day is currently underway in Katerera Sub-County, Rubirizi District, on Sunday, under the theme, "Conserving Wetlands Today for a Secure Tomorrow."

The Vice President of Uganda, Rtd. Maj. Jessica Alupo, is representing President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni as the Chief Guest. Other guests include Nwanne Vwede Obahor, the UNDP representative, and Hon. Beatrice Atim Anywar, the Minister of State for Environment.

The event has also brought together local leaders, conservationists, government officials, and the public to reflect on the importance of wetlands and their sustainable management.

In his message for the day, Hon. Sam Cheptoris, the Minister of Water and Environment, urged Ugandans to reflect on their actions and the vital role wetlands play in supporting life and livelihoods.

“This occasion serves as an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of wetlands for current and future generations,” he said.

Cheptoris emphasized that protecting wetlands is not just about environmental preservation; it is also about securing economic development for future generations.

Students entertaining guests during the event.

“By acting now, we can ensure that these ecosystems continue to thrive, supporting biodiversity, livelihoods, water filtration, and providing buffers against extreme weather events like floods and storms,” he explained.

Crucial role of wetlands in Uganda’s economy

Wetlands are integral to Uganda’s economy, supporting hydropower generation, agriculture, and tourism.

They provide water for domestic use and agriculture, act as breeding grounds for fish, and serve as vital habitats for biodiversity.

Despite their importance, the country is losing wetlands due to unsustainable urban development, overharvesting, pollution, and agricultural expansion.

Cheptoris highlighted that the continued loss of wetlands is a wake-up call for increased conservation efforts.

He pointed out that the government has implemented a 10-year Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Restoration Plan, reinforced compliance through the establishment of an Environment Protection Force, and strengthened legal frameworks to promote conservation.

"Every action counts," Cheptoris said, encouraging Ugandans to engage in reporting wetland degradation, raising awareness, and supporting conservation financially or through community initiatives.

Wetlands and climate resilience

Dr. Musonda Mumba, the Secretary-General of the Ramsar Convention, in her message for the day, underscored the importance of wetlands beyond water and food provision.

“Healthy wetlands are critical for climate mitigation, adaptation, biodiversity, and human health,” she said.

However, she warned that unsustainable development, pollution, and climate change continue to threaten these essential ecosystems.

Mumba stressed the need for collaborative efforts in policy-making, regulation, and community-driven initiatives to ensure the sustainable conservation of wetlands for the future.

The event was attended by a diverse group of local leaders, conservationists, government officials, and community members from various districts, all united in the call to protect Uganda’s wetlands.

As the country celebrates World Wetlands Day, the message at the celebrations is clear: safeguarding wetlands is essential not only for the environment but also for the sustainable development and resilience of future generations.