Women are taking leading roles in wetland preservation

Posted on October, 13 2025

Across many parts of Africa, women are playing a key role in protecting and restoring wetland ecosystems, which are vital to both the environment and their communities. As climate change brings new challenges, these women are stepping up as active guardians of fragile wetlands, using their knowledge and hard work to bring change.

In Zimbabwe’s Binga district, women have been leading efforts to conserve wetlands such as Chitongo wetland in Lusulu. Ms. Elizabeth Sibanda, a mother, grandmother and local conservationist, shared how they have built stone and gabion structures, measuring a combined 25 metres, to control water flow and prevent further erosion. The team, which had equal representation of men and women, also worked on reducing runoff towards the gullies by constructing brushwood check dams, digging trenches, and strengthening smaller gullies with rocks to reduce water runoff.

Says Elizabeth, “As women at the forefront of preserving wetlands, we have taken proactive steps to protect our water and land and with the training and support from WWF under the CAPA project, we feel empowered and knowledgeable.”

Nearby in Hwange district, women in communities such as Chidobe are achieving remarkable results too.

Ms. Charlene Khumalo described their efforts: “We constructed 11 gabion structures stretching 93 meters. We also planted vetiver grass over one hectare to stop erosion and help the land grow back naturally. These steps will have prevent further siltation and the fence erected by the Environmental Management Agency will even help keep cattle away from the protected wetland.”

Their work has improved the health of wetlands and safeguarded important natural habitats.

These stories from Binga and Hwange have inspired people beyond Zimbabwe. Ms. Asha Kilili, from Tanzania and a delegate at the Ramsar COP15, highlighted the importance of women participation in these efforts.

“Women are vital in managing and preserving wetlands. Because they care for their families, they have a close connection to natural resources. Seeing women involved in practical, local solutions here is very encouraging. I will take these lessons back to Tanzania. Women must be part of environmental stewardship everywhere.”

The experiences of these women show that when empowered and supported, they can lead meaningful change in protecting wetlands. Their participation not only transforms ecosystems but also strengthens communities and helps build a healthier planet for future generations.

Women are taking leading roles in wetland preservation.