Authors: Valarie Nyanaro and Nora Ndege
Of what importance are kidneys to the human body? Vital! So are wetlands to the earth. Often wetlands have been referred to as the “kidneys of the earth” for they play an important role in maintaining the health of our planet. Wetlands in Kenya cover about 4 % of the earth’s surface, quite a significant amount that for a long time has been overlooked, undervalued and devalued, despite the crucial role that they play in maintaining ecological balance and supporting biodiversity.
Wetlands act as nature’s reservoirs providing a habitat for a diverse array of plants and animal species. These dynamic habitats come in various forms, from expansive marshes and lush swamps serene estuaries and the ever-mysterious bogs. In this, we will delve into the wonders of wetlands, exploring their significant ecological values, the threats they face and the importance of conservation efforts.
What are wetlands? Wetlands cannot be singularly defined for the characteristics they possess are as diverse as the ecosystems they encompass. They are transitional zones, where water meets land to create an environment that is uniquely equipped and adapted to support a rich array of life. They come in various forms: marshes, swamps, bogs and estuaries that represent different and distinct types of wetlands for, each has its own set of characteristics and ecological functions. For instance, in marshes, you will find herbaceous vegetation immersed by shallow waters, providing a haven for various bird species and amphibians. Swamps, on the other hand are dominated by woody plants creating a scenic landscape full of life. Bogs, known for their nutrient-poor water that is mostly acidic hosts special classes of plants and carnivorous plants. Estuaries, where freshwater rivers meet the salty embrace of the sea serve as nurseries for countless marine species. Seasonal wetlands such as floodplains, lakes and springs: temporary pools in the grasslands/woodlands and bush: and ephemeral rock pools, flooded rock slabs and seeps play a vital role in the drylands as breeding and regeneration sites for animals and plants. In the rainy season, fish, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates disperse to these places to breed. Mammals I.e. the wildebeest migrate here to give birth.
Wetlands are more than the mere landscapes we see; they are thriving ecosystems that orchestrate a symphony of ecological functions:
One of their most remarkable roles is that they serve as biodiversity hotspots; the unique combination of terrestrial and aquatic environments in wetlands promotes breeding grounds for an array of fish, bird and other animal or plant species such as the vibrant bloom of the water lilies. Secondly, wetlands function as natural flood control mechanisms, they catch and absorb excess water, store it and gradually release it to help control the impact of floods, protect the shores and reduce soil erosion. Thirdly, wetlands are the master of water purification. Some plants that grow in these places such as sedges trap soil, minerals and waste before they reach the water thus acting as nature’s water treatment plants. Fourthly, they are unsung heroes in the battle against climate change since they can capture and store large amounts of carbon that slows and regulates the local climate changes and contribute to the ongoing effort to curb greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, wetlands offer economic goods and services such as: water for people, livestock and wildlife, fish and other foods, plant products for thatching, basket/mats/crafts weaving and grazing grounds in the dry season. Some intangible services that they offer include; religious and cultural sites, places for tourism and recreation and sites for outdoor education and scientific study.
Despite their long-standing importance, wetlands have faced numerous threats, primarily driven by human activities. Rapid urbanization, agricultural activities and the ever-growing sector of industrialization often encroach on these fragile ecosystems, causing loss of habitats and degradation. Wetlands face serious problems from pollution and climate change. Pollution, like excess nutrients and chemicals entering wetlands, can harm the quality of water. Climate change has made things worse by messing up rainfall and the temperature patterns, upsetting the natural balance of these ecosystems. Both issues threaten the health of wetlands and the diverse life they support. Also, when non-native plants and animals invade wetlands, they become a serious problem. These invasive species can outperform and beat the natural flora and fauna, causing a disruption in the delicate balance and natural harmony that wetlands need to thrive.
The above mentioned are the easily recognized direct drivers of change that threaten wetlands. Some of the indirect drivers of change include high human population increase and associated demand for food from fisheries and agriculture; poverty driven by limited livelihood options causing unsustainable harvesting and or use of wetlands; low capital investments in sustainable wetland management leads to less-than-optimal ways of exploiting wetland resources; over reliance on irrigation without assessing all risk factors; policy and institutional failures , such as lack of spatial land use plans based on strategic environment assessments I.e. seasonal wetlands are at risk as they are not seen on surveys or satellite images taken during the dry season. Most importantly the little appreciation for wetland values and insufficient political will to support the management of wetlands.
The beauty of nature is that when nurtured, they blossom and thrive, and wetlands are no different. We need to step up and protect these natural wonders. By conserving wetlands, we are not only just saving a beautiful piece of nature but preserving the earth. Responses to the act of conservation include mapping, delineating and publicizing boundaries for wetlands. Seasonal wetlands should be given the same consideration as permanent wetlands; requiring standard procedures and wide stakeholder consultations for alteration of wetlands for public use; promote sustainable extraction and utilization of goods and services derived from wetlands for example using large mesh fishing nets. Regulating the sinking of boreholes within any one catchment area; promoting and enforcing regulations and laws related to environmental pollution; discouraging the planting of trees on seasonal wetlands as they may speed the natural conversion of wetland to land; and recognizing the cultural and tourism value of wetlands and permitting cultural and traditional practices for use of wetland resources subject to regulations.
In conclusion, the importance of wetlands cannot be overstated. It is crucial to recognize wetlands as invaluable assets that deserve our attention, respect, and preservation. Let us commit to nurturing these ecosystems, ensuring they continue to thrive and fulfil their role as nature's guardians for generations to come. The future health of our planet rests, in part, on the careful stewardship of these extraordinary landscapes, where water and land dance in harmony, and life thrives in the delicate embrace of nature's aquatic tapestry.
