Celebrating the Role of Traditional Knowledge on World Wetlands Day
CONTACT: Barbara Hamoonga, Communications & Marketing Specialist, +260977425015
Zambia, Lusaka – January 29, 2026 — The International Crane Foundation in Africa calls for governments, organisations, and individuals to work alongside traditional custodians to restore wetlands for a secure future of cranes and people ahead of World Wetlands Day to be celebrated on 2nd February under the theme “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage.”
The day highlights the vital role wetlands play in sustaining biodiversity, supporting livelihoods, and preserving the cultural identities of communities worldwide.
“Protecting wetlands is not only an environmental priority—it is a development imperative. By integrating wetland conservation into broader environmental and development agendas, and by empowering governments, organisations, and individuals to work alongside traditional custodians, we can restore wetlands, safeguard cultural heritage, and secure a future for cranes and people alike.”
His Royal Highness Chief Hamusonde of the Lundwe People, Hamusonde Chiefdom, Monze District, Southern Province, and Hamweende Kayumba, Member of the Bansanje Clan in Chief Hamusonde’s Chiefdom, speak on what wetland’s mean to them and their people
World Wetlands Day marks the anniversary of the signing of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in 1971 and serves as a reminder of the urgent need to protect wetlands, which continue to be lost faster than they are restored. Wetlands are essential for climate stability, water and food security, and the survival of iconic species such as the Wattled Crane, Grey Crowned Crane, and Blue Crane.
Across Africa, wetlands are under increasing pressure from drainage for agriculture and settlement, pollution, invasive species, and poorly planned development. These threats not only endanger ecosystems and wildlife but also undermine traditional knowledge systems that have sustained wetlands for generations.
Zambian Traditional Leaders (left) Chieftainess Muwezwa and Senior Chief Shakumbila, and (right) International Crane Foundation Community Relations Manager David Banda with Chieftainess Muwezwa
The International Crane Foundation works worldwide to conserve cranes, and thriving wetlands are essential to their survival. In Africa, the Foundation works in Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Zambia, and South Africa to protect endangered crane species, including Wattled Cranes, Grey Crowned Cranes, and Blue Cranes, among others. In commemorating World Wetlands Day 2026, the Foundation will endeavour to:
- Promote awareness of traditional knowledge as a vital foundation for sustaining healthy wetlands and preserving cultural heritage.
- Highlight threats to wetlands and indigenous knowledge systems and advocate for actions that protect, empower, and integrate them into modern conservation efforts.
- Encourage the integration of wetland conservation into development agendas, with active participation from governments, organisations, and individuals.
- Showcase and share successful, culturally grounded conservation initiatives and best practices where traditional and local knowledge has effectively protected and restored wetlands.
The International Crane Foundation will continue to amplify community-led conservation stories, promote culturally grounded wetland management practices, and encourage collective action to protect wetlands for present and future generations.
Top photo: Ufulu Studios
