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Saving Overlooked Wetlands: A Call to Action on World Wetlands Day

Every year on February 2nd, the world comes together to celebrate World Wetlands Day, recognizing the crucial role of these ecosystems in sustaining biodiversity, communities, and the planet. Wetlands are nature’s silent heroes, purifying water, replenishing aquifers, mitigating floods, and providing essential habitats for countless species. Yet, despite their immense value, many wetlands remain overlooked and under threat.

In Rwanda, wetlands cover approximately 10.6% of the country’s surface area, serving as lifelines for both people and wildlife. The country boasts seven Important Bird Areas (IBAs), including Rugezi Marsh, Akagera National Park, Nyungwe National Park, Akanyaru Wetlands, Cyamudongo Forest, Nyabarongo Wetlands, and Volcanoes National Park. However, critical wetland IBAs, such as the Nyabarongo Wetlands, have been longtime overlooked and needs urgent conservation interventions.

 Nyabarongo Wetlands, a vital biodiversity hotspot, play a significant role in supporting local livelihoods by providing water for agriculture and sustaining fisheries. This wetland complex connects with the broader Akagera system, feeding into the Nile Basin and Lake Victoria watersheds. As an IBA, Nyabarongo Wetlands host a rich array of biodiversity, including globally threatened bird species such as the Malagasy Pond-Heron (Ardeola idae), Pallid Harrier (Circus macrourus), Gray-crowned Crane (Balearica regulorum), and Papyrus Gonolek (Laniarius mufumbiri). Additionally, the wetlands support three species from the Afrotropical Highlands biome, reinforcing their ecological importance. During the winter months (September–February), Nyabarongo Wetlands serve as a crucial stopover for migratory birds traveling along the East African-Eurasian Flyway.

Wetlands and Human Wellbeing

Despite their significance, Nyabarongo Wetlands face mounting threats that jeopardize their ecological integrity. Agricultural expansion, climate change, and increasing human population pressures have led to habitat degradation, water pollution, and biodiversity loss. These challenges have resulted in the wetlands being classified as endangered under IBA criteria A1 (species of global conservation concern) and A3 (biome-restricted species). Without immediate conservation action, the fragile ecosystems and the wildlife that depend on them will continue to decline.

Recognizing the urgency of this situation, Nature Rwanda is spearheading efforts to conserve Nyabarongo Wetlands by collecting updated biodiversity and socio-environmental data. This initiative will serve as a foundation for an effective conservation strategy that integrates both biodiversity protection and community involvement. Sustainable conservation is only possible when local communities, policymakers, and conservationists collaborate to protect these essential ecosystems.

“Our wetlands welcome a range of migratory species and support vulnerable species and communities. However, failing to conserve them will result in significant consequences for today and future generations. Taking action is now!” Said Elie Sinayitutse, Head of Programs at Nature Rwanda.

On this World Wetlands Day, we urge collective action to safeguard Rwanda’s overlooked wetlands. These fragile habitats are more than just bodies of water; they are essential to our environment, economy, and well-being. By acting today, we can ensure that Nyabarongo Wetlands and other threatened ecosystems continue to thrive for generations to come. Let us make this day not just a moment of reflection but a turning point for meaningful actions. Together, we can protect our wetlands and secure a sustainable future for Rwanda’s natural heritage.

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