As the world observes World Water Day under the theme “Glacier Preservation,” Budzanani Tacheba, interim executive director of the Southern African Science Service Centre for Climate Change and Adaptive Land Management (SASSCAL), has emphasised the importance of protecting global water sources.
Tacheba highlighted the critical role of wetlands in biodiversity, serving as habitats for various species, supporting food chains, and providing essential ecosystem services, including water purification and flood protection.
“Today, we are reminded of the critical importance of protecting our water resources – both frozen in glaciers and flowing in rivers, lakes, and wetlands. As glaciers around the world retreat due to climate change, we must also turn our attention to another crucial element in the global water cycle – wetlands. Often overlooked, these ecosystems play an indispensable role in safeguarding freshwater quality, supporting biodiversity, nurturing ecosystem health, and ensuring that clean water is available for all,” he said.
His message resonated strongly in Southern Africa, where climate change and water scarcity are significant concerns.
“At SASSCAL, we recognise that water is a shared and finite resource. We are all interconnected, and the health of our water systems affects everyone – across borders, regions, and generations,” he added.
Tacheba also spoke about WeMAST, a project led by SASSCAL aimed at sustainable wetland management in Southern Africa.
