Binga youths benefit from a knowledge clinic on wetlands conservation

By Ibin Munsaka

Youths from various wards in Binga District, yesterday, participated in a one-day knowledge clinic on wetland management, focusing on the protection and preservation of these vital ecosystems.

Organized under the Youth Collective Action for Social Transformation Alliance (YCA4SoTra) Project by Women’s Institute for Leadership Development (WILD) in partnership with Zimbabwe Youth Council in Binga, the goal of the knowledge clinic was to engage youths in the conservation of wetlands for future generations.

The event aligns with the upcoming COP 15 Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, scheduled to take place in Victoria Falls from July 23 to 31. The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands is an intergovernmental treaty dedicated to the conservation and wise use of all wetlands through local, regional, and national actions, as well as international cooperation, contributing to sustainable development worldwide.

During the knowledge clinic, District Environmental Officer for the Environmental Management Agency (EMA), Phineas Mudimba, emphasized the crucial role that wetlands play in communities, serving as a source of water for both domestic and wildlife use. With Binga being home to over 40 wetlands, Mudimba noted that water from wetlands can be utilized for irrigation, and can support fish farming, enabling youths to earn a living.

Knowledge Khumalo, Project Officer for WILD, highlighted that the European Union (EU) funded project seeks to capacitate youths across 10 Districts in Zimbabwe, where taking responsibility for wetland conservation would foster a sense of ownership and encourage youths to report any violations of conservation laws.

Mbuzibede Mukuli, the Zimbabwe Youth Council Provincial Chairperson Clubs and Associations for Matebeleland North, expressed gratitude to WILD and its partners, SAYWHAT and Save the Children for hosting the informative workshop. He stressed that the knowledge gained should not end there and participants should educate their peers to enhance community understanding of the importance of conserving and preserving wetlands.

During the knowledge clinic, the general consensus was that the collective efforts of organizations like WILD and the enthusiasm of youths, who have decided to select a steering committee that will represent each youth club in Binga, highlight the potential for positive change in environmental conservation within the community. With continued support and resources, it is believed that the youths of Binga can play a vital role in both protecting their natural heritage and educating others about its importance.