By Violet Mashonga
Zimbabwe joined the global community in commemorating World Wetlands Day 2026, themed “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage.
The commemoration held on Monday at Ditchwe Wetland in Makonde District, Mashonaland West Province, highlighted the importance of wetlands in supporting biodiversity, mitigating climate change, and sustaining local communities.
Secretary for Environment, Climate and Wildlife, represented Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife Hon Evelyn Ndhovu, delivered a keynote speech.
“It is a profound honour to address you today as we join the global community in commemorating World Wetlands Day 2026. This year’s theme, ‘Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage,’ speaks directly to our identity as Zimbabweans.
“Long before wetlands were defined in scientific terms, our communities understood them as sacred spaces governed by cultural norms, taboos, and the wisdom of our traditional leaders,” she said.
Ambassador Chifamba highlighted Zimbabwe’s commitment to environmental conservation, including its presidency of the Ramsar Convention and plans to restore 250,000 hectares of degraded wetlands and designate five new Ramsar Sites by 2030.
“Wetlands are among the most valuable ecosystems on Earth. They purify water, regulate floods, recharge groundwater, store carbon, support biodiversity, and sustain livelihoods. Yet, they are also the most threatened ecosystem globally,” she said.
Councilor Eniwe Murimbike, Chairperson of Makonde Rural District Council, gave a background of Ditchwe Wetland, describing its importance and the reverence with which ancestors held the place.
“Ditchwe Wetland is a sacred place, a source of life and livelihood for our communities. Our ancestors understood its rhythms, the medicinal plants that grow here, and the cultural significance of this wetland. They respected this place, and we must follow their example,” he said.
Hon Marrian Chombo, Resident Minister of Mashonaland West Province, delivered a speech, emphasizing the significance of traditional knowledge in wetland conservation.
“It is with great honour and a profound sense of responsibility that I welcome you to this momentous occasion.
“We gather here today at the Ditchwe Wetland, Makonde District, to celebrate World Wetlands Day under the theme ‘Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage,'” she said.
Hon Chombo highlighted the importance of Ditchwe Wetland and the need for collective action to protect wetlands.
“May this day inspire us to protect and restore wetlands, not just today but every day. Let the traditional knowledge that flourished in places like this guide our modern strategies,” she said.
The commemoration was marked by a call to action, urging communities to work together to conserve and protect wetlands, and to integrate traditional knowledge with modern conservation practices.
The event was graced by senior government officials, heads of government parastatals, members of the party, traditional leaders, and local authorities.
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