Today, delegates at the Convention on Wetlands embarked on a truly special field tour to Kasibo Wetland , a living testament to community-led conservation and the profound connection between people and nature.
This evergreen ‘oasis’ in Kasibo has a rich history, dating back to 1965 when Five Bhewu Nyathi first settled here, drawn by its abundance of game, wild fruits, and the magnificent, perennial spring. Revered as a sacred shrine, the community developed traditional taboos – from specific methods of water collection (kugambula ivula, giving the wetland its name Mugambo) to prohibitions against cutting trees or cultivating upstream – all designed to protect this vital resource.
As the population grew, the community, led by traditional leaders, took proactive steps to preserve the wetland. Through partnerships with organizations like Catholic Development Commission (CADEC/CARITAS) and World Vision, they constructed dams, and established a thriving nutrition garden under irrigation. The Environmental Management Agency (EMA) fenced the site and has been instrumental, providing expert advice and introducing “modern taboos” like banning upstream cultivation and promoting contour ridges to prevent siltation.
It’s inspiring to see how this community has preserved their heritage against various threats. The Kasibo Wetland, once a simple hunting ground, has blossomed into a model of sustainable living, supporting diverse wildlife (including reedbucks, otters, and various fish species) and enriching the lives of villagers through its spring, gardens, and beekeeping projects.
We applaud the Kasibo community for their unwavering commitment to protecting this treasure. Their story at Kasibo Wetland is a powerful example of how protecting wetlands truly is for our common future.