Global Wetland Restoration Takes Centre Stage as COP15 Commences in Vic Falls

The 15th Conference of the Parties (COP15) to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands opened in Victoria Falls this Wednesday, with deliberations underway on critical resolutions that will guide global wetland conservation efforts for the next three years.

At the heart of discussions was the proposed Victoria Falls Declaration, which seeks to position wetland restoration as a key strategy in combating climate change.

The declaration is expected to pave the way for establishing a Global Wetland Restoration Fund, designed to finance vital conservation projects worldwide.

The inaugural day featured intensive regional consultations, where member states convened to harmonise their positions ahead of formal plenary sessions.

Ramsar Convention Secretary General Dr Musonda Mumba emphasised the interconnected nature of wetland ecosystems.

“Wetland management must account for global linkages, such as migratory bird routes that span continents.These systems transcend national boundaries, requiring collective action,” she stated.

African delegates articulated clear priorities during their regional meeting.

“Our focus includes maintaining the ecological integrity of Ramsar Sites, revising reporting timelines for wetland data, and advocating for increased financial commitments from member states,” explained a representative from Kenya’s delegation.

The group proposed a 10% rise in contributions to bolster the Convention’s conservation programmes.
Zimbabwe reaffirmed its commitment to wetland preservation, announcing plans to designate five additional Ramsar Sites and rehabilitate 250 000 hectares of degraded wetlands by 2030.

The host nation’s pledges underscore the conference’s broader theme of translating policy into tangible environmental action.

With nearly 3000 delegates gathered in Victoria Falls for the 10-day summit, the event has emerged as a crucial platform for shaping the future of global wetland conservation.

As negotiations continue, participants remain focused on crafting actionable frameworks that balance ecological protection with sustainable development needs.