Call for Proper Management of Rwandan Wetlands to Reduce Disasters
- Emmanuel Ntirenganya
- Feb 14, 2017
- 1 min read
Wetlands in Rwanda are under pressure from poor agricultural practices, peat extraction, illegal mining, pollution, dumping of waste, construction activities and illegal infrastructure, among others.
This, according to Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), has resulted in wetlands being unable to effectively serve their functions.
Wetlands purify and replenish our water, serve as a natural sponge, absorbing and storing excess rainfall and reducing flooding.
During the dry season, they release the water stored, delaying the onset of droughts and reducing water shortages. They are also a vital means of storing carbon, therefore, helping in mitigation and adaptation to climate change effects, according to REMA.
The Director-General of REMA, Eng. Coletha Ruhamya, said this situation calls for promotion of sustainable practices that support healthy wetlands for disaster risk reduction.
Green Fund Rwanda