The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) successfully celebrated World Wetlands Day with the City of Tshwane, the Department of Education, the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), the local community, and primary school learners.
This year's theme: 'Wetlands and Human Wellbeing' highlighted the crucial role wetlands play in flood protection, clean water, biodiversity, and recreation - all essential for human health and prosperity.
The purpose of the World Wetlands Day event was to emphasize the importance of wetlands in improving human lives and to encourage community participation in protecting these valuable ecosystems.
Wetlands play a significant role in flood prevention, clean water provision, support of biodiversity, and provision of recreational areas.
DWS believes that these engagements should continue throughout the year to ensure the ongoing protection and preservation of wetlands.
In attendance were community members from Moreletaspruit, primary school teachers, and students in grades 4-7 from Glenstentia, Constantia, and East Side Primary Schools.
Addressing the audience, Tebogo Mashiane from Water Resource Support (WRS) stressed the importance of community participation in DWS campaigns, as they seek to educate and raise awareness among society.
Ms. Mashiane also noted that awareness campaigns provide an opportunity for the wider community to learn and comprehend the significant role played by these wetlands.
Wetlands function as a natural buffer regulating stream flows, absorbing excess water during heavy rains and releasing it during dry periods, which can reduce the severity of droughts and floods, according to Mashiane.
Ms. Mashiane further presented basic concepts of wetlands and water resources and recommended citizen science tools for learners interested in environmental affairs.
She also demonstrated to the attendees how to use a citizen science tool to assess the health of water resources using simple and standardized methods.
The wetlands are essential for maintaining clean water sources and they act as natural filters, removing pollutants and contaminants from water bodies, thus improving water quality.
Oscar Bungeni of the Water Sector Support concurred with Ms. Mashiane that wetlands support water quality and biodiversity by providing a habitat for rare and endangered plant and animal species.
“Wetlands are crucial for supporting biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance by acting as nurseries and breeding grounds for numerous aquatic species”, said Bungeni.
Ms. Noloyiso Mbiza, a national coordinator from Resource Quality Information Services highlighted that wetlands have great importance for the environment, as well as providing recreational opportunities for both locals and tourists. Nature reserves like Mhangele offer ample space for outdoor activities such as walking, birdwatching, and fishing, which can promote physical fitness and contribute to mental well-being.
She emphasized that preserving the environment is a collective responsibility that requires individual effort. One way the public can contribute is by reducing pollution through proper waste disposal and avoiding activities that could contaminate water bodies. Another effective approach is by volunteering for wetland clean-up initiatives. This helps to remove litter and restore the natural beauty of these areas.
DWS Spokesperson Wisani Mavasa has urged the public to consider taking part in these initiatives brought by the Department of Water and Sanitation as they aim to improve the public’s view on the conservation and preservation of these valuable ecosystems.
“Join us to save wetlands. Your actions matter. Together, we can protect and preserve these vital ecosystems for future generations”. Said Mavasa in her closing remarks.
For more information, contact:
Wisane Mavasa
Spokesperson for the Department of Water and Sanitation
Cell: 060 561 8935
