Wetlands cover nearly one-third of Zimbabwe’s land area, with the majority consisting of small wetlands that play a crucial role in local ecosystems and livelihoods. As the host country for the upcoming 15th Conference of the Parties (COP15) to the Convention on Wetlands, Zimbabwe is actively engaging with international partners to exchange experiences on wetland conservation and management.
On February 27, 2025, Hon. Minister Sithembiso G. G. Nyoni of Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Environment, Climate, and Wildlife led a delegation to the Interim Secretariat of International Mangrove Center (IMC). The visit underscored Zimbabwe’s commitment to international cooperation, providing a platform for knowledge sharing on wetland and mangrove conservation, discussions on joint efforts for COP15 and the exploration of future collaboration.
Prof. Bao Daming, Director General of the Interim Secretariat of IMC, provided the development of the IMC and its major initiatives, highlighting its role in fostering global partnerships. He expressed optimism for strengthened collaboration between the IMC and Zimbabwe and looked forward to further discussions during COP15.
The discussions also provided a platform to highlight Zimbabwe’s efforts in wetland conservation. Edward Samuriwo, Director of the Ministry of Environmental Management, provided an overview of Zimbabwe’s wetlands, while Aaron Chigona, Director General of the Environmental Management Services, outlined the management of small wetlands. Tesa Chikaponya, Executive Director of the National Convention Bureau, presented Zimbabwe’s preparations for COP15. Minister Nyoni reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s intent to join the IMC, recognizing its role in international cooperation on wetland conservation, technical exchanges, and knowledge sharing.
Representatives from China’s National Forestry and Grassland Administration (NFGA), the Secretariat of the Convention on Wetlands, the Shenzhen Municipal Planning and Natural Resources Bureau, and the Mangrove Conservation Foundation (MCF) also attended the meeting.