Ramsar COP15 Opens With Strong Call to Action

Rutendo Mazhindu - ZimNow Reporter

President Mnangagwa today officially opened the 15th Conference of the Contracting Parties (COP15) to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands with a strong call for urgent, collective global action to protect wetlands, which he described as key to climate resilience, biodiversity, and sustainable development.

Addressing delegates from 172 member states gathered in Victoria Falls, the President said wetlands remained among the most threatened ecosystems due to urbanisation, pollution, agricultural expansion, and climate change. He warned that failure to act would undermine efforts to secure environmental sustainability and protect future generations.

“Our wetlands are essential ecosystems that provide critical services such as water purification, flood control, and carbon storage,” said President Mnangagwa.

“To neglect wetlands would be to abandon a critical portion of our existence. Time has come to secure their guaranteed preservation as a foundation for a sustainable, equitable, and resilient future.”

He said Zimbabwe ratified the Ramsar Convention in 2013 and has since designated seven Ramsar sites.

The country remains committed to strengthening conservation strategies through policy reform, community involvement, and sustainable land use practices.

He also announced that COP15 would endorse the Victoria Falls Declaration, aimed at driving financing, research, and political commitment toward wetland restoration.

The official opening follows Wednesday’s preparatory meetings, which included high-level regional consultations and the 65th Standing Committee session. Delegates reviewed the draft agenda, debated key resolutions, and addressed logistical matters to ensure smooth negotiations in the coming days.

Ramsar Secretary General Dr Musonda Mumba said the draft resolutions will shape the direction of wetland conservation beyond 2025.

“We have held several regional meetings to look at expectations around the draft resolutions,” she said.

“These discussions help define what countries want to see emerge from the plenary and what priorities should guide the next triennium.”

Dr Mumba also toured national exhibitions, including the China Pavilion, ahead of the handover of the COP14 presidency.

“I am deeply impressed by the range and quality of displays highlighting wetland conservation efforts. It is encouraging to see such commitment and innovation showcased at this level,” she said. The conference continues this week with negotiations expected to deliver concrete actions and commitments to halt wetland loss globally.