The African Coalition of Communities Responsive to Climate Change (ACCRCC) has made a strong plea for greater focus on protecting wetlands across Africa. As the continent faces severe climate challenges—like floods, droughts, and food shortages—these vital ecosystems are often overlooked.
“Wetlands act as shields against climate change,” says Henry Neondo, Policy Advocacy Lead at ACCRCC. They help absorb excess water, store carbon, and support both wildlife and local communities. Unfortunately, many wetlands are being destroyed quickly due to immediate development needs.
The continuous loss of wetlands poses a grave risk not only to the environment but also to the millions who rely on them for fishing, farming, and drinking water. In Uganda, for instance, wetland coverage has plummeted from 15.6% in 1994 to just 8.9% in 2021. Andrew Sande, the Uganda Country Director for ACCRCC, warns that without urgent action, the country could lose its remaining wetlands in the next 15 years.
Dr. Rosalind Nkirote, an Executive Advisor at ACCRCC, emphasizes the importance of inclusive governance in protecting these ecosystems. “Communities that live near wetlands are the best guardians of these areas,” she explains. When their rights are acknowledged and their expertise recognized, wetlands can be managed sustainably. This approach should be led by community members, be sensitive to gender issues, and be informed by climate impacts.
In light of World Wetlands Day, ACCRCC is urging governments to take significant steps. They want policymakers to prioritize wetlands in national frameworks, boost public funding for their restoration, include local and Indigenous voices in decisions, and hold developers accountable for damaging the environment.
This call to action is not just about conserving nature; it’s about community resilience. A report from the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) highlights that protecting wetlands can reduce the economic costs of climate disasters by up to 30%. By investing in these ecosystems, nations can secure the livelihoods of millions and combat climate change effectively.
As awareness grows on platforms like Twitter and Instagram, grassroots movements are also emerging. Hashtags like #SaveOurWetlands are trending, bringing together voices from around the globe, united in the fight for environmental justice.
ACCRCC remains dedicated to collaborating with communities, researchers, and policymakers to create sustainable pathways that benefit both nature and people. Protecting wetlands is not just an environmental necessity; it is essential for the survival of communities across Africa.
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ACCRCC,African Coalition of Communities Responsive to Climate Change (ACCRCC),Wetland,World Wetland Day 2026
