With a view to harmonizing African positions and discussing strategic issues related to the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands in preparation for the 15th Session of the Conference of the Parties to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (COP15) which will take place between July 23 and 31, 2025 in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe; Delegates from around forty African countries parties to the Ramsar Convention as well as international partner organizations and experts in wetland management are meeting in conclave in Marrakech from January 8 to 10 as part of an African regional meeting preparation for this event.
During this large-scale meeting; participants had to debate several key themes including and among others: The new Ramsar 2025-2034 strategic plan, which defines ambitious objectives, such as promoting the designation of new sites of international importance to strengthen ecological connectivity , particularly for the habitats of migratory birds, the role of wetlands in the implementation of the Global Framework for Biodiversity (CMB), adopted at COP15 of the Convention on Biological Diversity, as spaces essential for biodiversity and climate resilience and finally, the institutional strengthening of the Ramsar Convention, aiming to improve its governance framework, its international recognition and the mobilization of financing for the conservation of these vital ecosystems.
In his opening remarks delivered on the occasion during the inaugural ceremony which he chaired, Mr. Abderrahim Houmy, Director General of the National Agency for Water and Forests (ANEF) who highlighted the efforts of the Kingdom in terms of conservation of water resources and wetlands stressed that, since its accession to the Ramsar Convention in 1980, Morocco has included 38 sites on the List of wetlands of international importance.
Since its accession to the Ramsar Convention in 1980, he said, the Kingdom of Morocco has adopted a proactive policy to reconcile economic development and the preservation of biodiversity. Guided by the High Royal Guidance, the Kingdom has deployed an inclusive and participatory approach aligned with the 2030 UN Sustainable Development Goals.
For A. Houmy, the “Forests of Morocco 2020-2030” strategy embodies this commitment, offering adapted responses to preserve wetlands, strengthen the resilience of local populations and reconcile citizens with these spaces. The national action plan for the conservation of wetlands, as a strategic tool, supports these efforts by providing an integrated vision for all ecosystems, he said.
According to the CEO of ANEF; This meeting in Marrakech is of particular importance, particularly in the run-up to COP 15, which will see the adoption of the new Ramsar Strategic Plan 2025-2034. This plan aims to integrate innovative solutions to respond to the impacts of climate change and to promote the designation of new sites of international importance.
In accordance with the High Royal Instructions of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God Glorify Him, the Kingdom of Morocco continues its firm commitment to the preservation of humid ecosystems. The “Forests of Morocco 2020-2030” Strategy, launched by His Majesty in 2020, offers concrete solutions to protect and restore these ecosystems, while improving the living conditions of local populations and reconciling citizens with these natural spaces.
In this context, ANEF plans the registration of 10 new Ramsar sites by the end of 2025, thus bringing the national total to 48 wetlands of international importance as well as the strengthening of technical tools and governance bodies for better coordination between state and non-state actors and international partners.
Member of the Permanent Committee of the Ramsar Convention for the period 2022-2025 as representative of the North Africa sub-region, Morocco plays a strategic role in international environmental governance bodies. This position allows him to carry the voice of Africa to address the challenges of conservation, restoration and sustainable use of African wetlands.
Note that this Marrakech meeting constitutes an essential platform to consolidate cooperation between African countries and promote cross-border partnerships aimed at the conservation of biodiversity and wetlands. Through this event, Morocco reaffirms its role as regional leader and its support for any initiative in favor of the preservation of these ecosystems, essential for sustainable development and the fight against the effects of climate change.
