Report on Wetland Preservation and Sustainable Development in Harare, Zimbabwe

Introduction

The Monavale Vlei, a 500-hectare wetland located in the northwestern region of Harare, Zimbabwe’s capital, remains a well-preserved natural habitat due to the dedicated efforts of the Conservation Society of Monavale (COSMO). This report highlights the significance of wetland preservation in relation to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasizing ecosystem health, water security, and community engagement.

Monavale Vlei Wetland: A Vital Ecosystem

• Location and Size: Situated in Harare’s northwest, covering 500 hectares.
• Ecological Importance: Supports diverse bird species, including migratory birds, serving as indicators of ecosystem health (SDG 15: Life on Land).
• Mammalian Biodiversity: Habitat for mammals such as slender mongoose, large grey mongoose, side-striped jackal, bush pig, otters, and duikers.
• Water Source: Part of the Manyame catchment basin, the primary water source for Harare and surrounding towns (SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation).

Conservation Efforts by COSMO

1. Restoration and Protection: Since 2005, COSMO has actively restored the wetland and protected it from threats like waste dumping and informal agriculture.
2. Alien Species Removal: Efforts to remove invasive plant species to maintain a healthy ecosystem.
3. Community Engagement: Educational walks, outreach programs, advocacy, and collaboration with authorities to raise awareness on wetland conservation (SDG 4: Quality Education).

Environmental Functions and Challenges

• Water Filtration and Flood Control: Wetlands act as natural filters and flood regulators, crucial for urban resilience (SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities).
• Carbon Sequestration: Wetlands contribute to climate change mitigation by absorbing carbon dioxide (SDG 13: Climate Action).
• Biodiversity Support: Preservation of diverse flora and fauna supports ecological balance.
• Urban Development Pressure: Surrounding residential expansion threatens wetland integrity, necessitating stronger protection measures.

Strategic Importance and Global Recognition

Zimbabwe is set to host the 15th meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in Victoria Falls from July 23 to 31, 2025. Holding the Ramsar presidency for the next three years places Zimbabwe at the forefront of global wetland conservation efforts.

Cultural and Medicinal Value

Wetlands also hold cultural significance and provide natural medicinal plants, as noted by members of the Restore Eden Initiative, a youth-led environmental movement focused on sustainable development (SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being).

Conclusion

The preservation of Monavale Vlei wetland exemplifies the critical role wetlands play in achieving multiple Sustainable Development Goals, including ecosystem conservation, water security, climate action, and community well-being. Continued conservation efforts and increased awareness are essential to safeguard these vital ecosystems amid urbanization pressures.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected to the Issues Highlighted in the Article

1. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation – The article emphasizes the role of the Monavale wetland as a crucial water source for Harare and surrounding towns, highlighting the importance of water filtration and supply.
2. SDG 13: Climate Action – Wetlands’ role in carbon sequestration and flood control connects to climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts.
3. SDG 14: Life Below Water – Although primarily about wetlands, the focus on aquatic ecosystems and biodiversity relates to conserving aquatic life.
4. SDG 15: Life on Land – The article discusses biodiversity conservation, habitat protection for birds and mammals, and ecosystem restoration.
5. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – The article addresses challenges from urban development and the importance of preserving natural habitats within urban settings.
6. SDG 4: Quality Education – Educational walks and outreach programs to raise awareness about wetland conservation are mentioned.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified Based on the Article’s Content

1. SDG 6 – Target 6.6: Protect and restore water-related ecosystems, including wetlands.
2. SDG 13 – Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters.
3. SDG 14 – Target 14.2: Sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems to avoid significant adverse impacts.
4. SDG 15 – Target 15.1: Ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services.
5. SDG 11 – Target 11.7: Provide universal access to safe, inclusive, and accessible green and public spaces, particularly for vulnerable populations.
6. SDG 4 – Target 4.7: Ensure that all learners acquire knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article to Measure Progress Towards the Identified Targets

• Indicator for SDG 6.6: Proportion of water bodies with good ambient water quality and extent of water-related ecosystems (wetlands) protected and restored.
• Indicator for SDG 13.1: Number of countries with national and local disaster risk reduction strategies that include ecosystem-based approaches such as wetland preservation.
• Indicator for SDG 14.2 and 15.1: Coverage of protected areas in relation to wetlands and biodiversity conservation status, including presence and diversity of indicator species such as migratory birds and mammals.
• Indicator for SDG 11.7: Proportion of urban green space per capita and accessibility of natural habitats within urban areas.
• Indicator for SDG 4.7: Number of educational programs and outreach activities focused on environmental conservation and sustainable development.
• Additional implied indicators include the health of the wetland ecosystem as measured by presence of indicator species (birds, mammals), absence of alien plant species, and water quality.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: newzimbabwe.com