Overview
The National Policy on Wetlands (2018), developed by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, provides a national framework for the conservation, protection, and sustainable use of Zambia’s wetlands. Wetlands cover 14–19% of Zambia’s land area and are critical for biodiversity, water security, agriculture, fisheries, tourism, climate resilience, and cultural heritage.
This policy aligns with Zambia’s Vision 2030, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and international obligations under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, ensuring that wetlands are wisely used for the benefit of present and future generations.
Importance of Wetlands
- Ecological Services: Wetlands regulate water flow, recharge groundwater, store carbon, purify water, trap sediments, and prevent soil erosion.
- Biodiversity: Home to iconic species such as the Wattled Crane and the endemic Kafue Lechwe, wetlands are biodiversity hotspots.
- Socio-Economic Value: Wetlands support fishing, livestock grazing, farming, and eco-tourism, and serve as cultural sites tied to ceremonies like the Kuomboka of the Lozi people.
- Cultural Significance: They hold deep traditional, spiritual, and heritage values, e.g., Barotse Floodplains, Itezhi-tezhi Flats, and Kafue ecosystems.
Vision
A functional, productive, and resilient wetland system contributing to biodiversity, climate resilience, ecosystem services, and sustainable livelihoods.
Guiding Principles
The policy is anchored on:
- Common Asset – wetlands are a shared national and global resource.
- Intergenerational Equity – protection for current and future generations.
- Ecosystem & Holistic Approach – wetlands managed as part of broader ecosystems.
- Participation & Inclusiveness – involving communities, youth, and women.
- Polluter Pays & Precautionary Principles – accountability and early prevention.
- No Net Loss & Payment for Ecosystem Services – balancing conservation with development.
Key Objectives
1. Conservation & Protection
- Conserve wetland ecosystems to maintain integrity and productivity.
- Protect wetlands and catchments from human and climate-induced shocks.
- Promote research, monitoring, and inventories for informed management.
2. Sustainable Socio-Economic Use
- Support livelihoods (fishing, eco-tourism, grazing) while safeguarding ecosystems.
- Ensure equitable benefit-sharing from wetland resources.
- Regulate investment and promote sustainable green technologies.
Policy Measures
- Strengthen legal frameworks for wetland protection.
- Develop classification systems and conservation plans.
- Implement eco-restoration programmes for degraded wetlands.
- Promote eco-tourism, community rules, and value addition initiatives.
- Support MSMEs in sustainable wetland resource use.
- Ensure corporate social responsibility and environmental accountability for investors.
Threats Addressed
The policy responds to key pressures including:
- Invasive species (e.g., Mimosa pigra, water hyacinth).
- Unplanned human settlements and overfishing.
- Pollution from agriculture, industry, and mining.
- Damming & draining of wetlands.
- Climate change impacts on water and biodiversity.
- Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs/LMOs) threatening genetic diversity.
Implementation Framework
- Lead Institution: Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources (Natural Resources Dept.).
- Supporting Ministries: Water Development, Fisheries, Agriculture, Energy, Local Government, and Chiefs’ Affairs.
- Agencies: WARMA (water regulation), ZEMA (environmental oversight), NHCC (heritage conservation).
- Stakeholders: Civil Society, private sector, traditional leaders, and communities.
Legal Backing
Draws from Environmental Management Act (2011), Water Resources Act (2011), Forests Act (2015), Wildlife Act (2015), and others.
Financing
Funded through the national budget, bilateral and multilateral partners, private sector, and alternative financing (e.g., PES schemes).
Monitoring & Evaluation
Regular monitoring through a comprehensive M&E framework under the national system, with reviews every three years to address emerging challenges.
Expected Outcomes
- Strengthened biodiversity conservation and ecosystem resilience.
- Improved livelihoods and equitable benefit-sharing for communities.
- Enhanced climate change resilience and disaster risk reduction.
- Integrated and accountable wetland governance.
- Sustainable contribution of wetlands to Zambia’s socio-economic transformation
