Youth Urged to Lead Conservation Efforts, as Zimbabwe Marks International Wetlands Day
Providence Moyo
Zimbabwe on Monday joined the global community in commemorating International Wetlands Day, with environmental experts calling on young people to take a leading role in protecting wetlands amid increasing development pressures.
In an exclusive interview with Matabeleland Pulse, Climate Control Research and Projects Development Manager Praise Govere cautioned against the destruction of wetlands in the name of development, stressing their ecological and socio-economic importance.
“Wetlands are important because they act as nature’s sponge, soaking up excess water and reducing flood risks while filtering out pollutants. Wetlands are also biodiversity hubs, home to diverse plants and animals, and play a big role in combating climate change by storing carbon. They support livelihoods through fishing, farming and tourism. For us, wetlands mean clean water, food security, protection from extreme weather and spaces for recreation. Basically, they are key to keeping things balanced,” Govere said
He added, “as the vanguard of our planet’s future, young people must champion the preservation of wetlands, refusing to sacrifice these ecological treasures at the altar of unsustainable development. We must reject the destruction of wetlands for the sake of alleged progress, instead advocating for sustainable practices that balance human needs with environmental stewardship. Our future depends on it.”
Green Hut Director Cinderella Ndlovu said the involvement of young people is critical to ensuring long-term conservation outcomes, noting that youths make up the majority of Zimbabwe’s population.
“Zimbabwe’s population largely constitutes young people. For wetlands conservation to be sustainable, it has to include young people. They are not just passive participants but innovators and tech gurus able to utilise modern technologies to map wetlands and track conservation efforts through GIS and remote sensing. Youths are also advocates of wetlands conservation and protection, raising awareness and lobbying for more action.”
Climate Champion Nkanyezi Ndlovu said wetlands play a vital role in sustaining human life and biodiversity.
“Wetlands are a critical element for human survival, acting as a natural water purification and filtration agent, a key component for human health. They also play an important role in flood control, absorbing large amounts of water. Wetlands are home to a diverse range of species and wildlife, which form part of our ecosystem and are the very essence of photographic tourism.”
Wetlands continue to contribute significantly to Zimbabwe’s tourism sector, particularly at major natural attractions such as Victoria Falls, which remains one of the country’s leading tourist destinations.According to industry data, Zimbabwe’s tourism sector generated approximately US$922 million between January and September 2025, representing a 10 percent increase from the US$839 million recorded during the same period in 2024. The growth highlights the economic value of natural ecosystems and reinforces calls by conservationists for the protection of wetlands as both an environmental and development priority.
