The 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (COP15) was officially opened today by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in the resort city of Victoria Falls, with a call for immediate global action to reverse wetland loss and secure a sustainable future.

Addressing delegates from over 170 nations

Addressing delegates from over 170 nations, President Mnangagwa described wetlands as “a critical portion of our existence,” underscoring their role in biodiversity preservation, water purification, flood control and climate resilience.

President Mnangagwa Touring Chinese Stand

“Wetlands provide livelihoods for more than a billion people and are home to 40% of the Earth’s species.To neglect them would be to abandon a critical portion of our existence,” said President Mnangagwa.

The President stressed that wetlands were essential to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in combating poverty, hunger, water scarcity, and climate change.

However, he warned that wetlands remain among the most threatened ecosystems globally due to urbanisation, agricultural expansion, and climate change.

“We are facing a triple planetary crisis — climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution — and our wetlands are on the frontlines. It is no longer enough to talk; now is the time to act,” he said.

Deputy Ministers of Local Government and Public , AlMavunga , Kabirika and Deputy Minister Information Marupi at COP15 in Victoria Falls. Photocredit-Hurumende News Hub

President Mnangagwa revealed that Zimbabwe had designated seven Ramsar sites since ratifying the Convention in 2013, and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

He announced that COP15 is expected to endorse the Victoria Falls Declaration — a bold framework aimed at mobilising resources, strengthening political will, and fostering international cooperation for wetland conservation.

“The Declaration recognises the ecological, social and economic importance of wetlands. It serves as a guide and a call to action to conserve, restore and manage wetlands sustainably,” he noted.

The President urged contracting parties to move from policy formulation to implementation and invest in wetland protection.

He called for the integration of wetlands into climate adaptation strategies and the mobilisation of sustainable financing mechanisms.

“My Government commits to championing resource mobilisation, rehabilitation efforts, and building strong linkages with multilateral agencies and the private sector.

With unwavering political will, concrete commitments and shared determination, we must protect, revive, and wisely use our wetlands for the benefit of both present and future generations,” he said.

President Mnangagwa praised the outgoing COP President, the People’s Republic of China, for its guidance and thanked the Ramsar Secretariat for its continued support.

Meanwhile, President Mnangagwa took time to tour various exhibition stands at the Elephant Hills Hotel, where he expressed admiration for the impressive displays mounted by participating countries, organisations, and entities.

He commended the exhibitors for showcasing innovative solutions, research, and community-driven initiatives that promote wetland conservation and sustainable environmental practices.

The President noted that such exhibitions play a vital role in knowledge-sharing and fostering global cooperation towards ecological stewardship.

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