Today, World Wetlands Day is celebrated, an annual observance held on 2 February, marking the adoption of the Convention on Wetlands, on 2 February 1971. This global day draws attention to the important role of wetlands as ecosystems that naturally purify water, absorb excess rainfall, regulate hydrological flows, and reduce flood risks, contributing significantly to climate resilience. Wetlands are among the world’s most productive environments, providing essential ecosystem services such as freshwater supply, flood control, groundwater recharge, and climate change mitigation. 

Wetland ecosystems and mangrove forests are closely connected. Suriname is home to a wide range of wetlands, forming part of its coastal and inland ecological mosaic. Among these are mudbanks, coastal waters, mangrove forests and swamps, lagoons and pans, freshwater swamps, lakes, and river systems, and marsh ecosystems. Understanding the characteristics and ecological functions of these different wetland types enables Suriname to strengthen ecosystem, including mangroves management and enhance national adaptation strategies to mitigate the negative effects of climate change. 

In line with this year’s theme, “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage”, the Mangrove+ Project recently facilitated METT (Management Effectiveness Tracking Tool) assessment sessions in the Bigi Pan, Noord Commewijne–Marowijne, and Noord Coronie MUMAs. During these sessions, participants exchanged thoughts on how traditional practices can be protected and leveraged to support sustainable development opportunities such as fisheries, and ecotourism, which are all activities strongly connected to the health of wetland ecosystems and therefore mangrove forests. 

The mangrove forest in Suriname is equal to 87600 hectares closely interconnected with its Wetlands (SBB, 2023). One of Suriname’s significant wetland areas, the Bigi Pan Multiple Use Management Area (MUMA), encompasses approximately 68,320 hectares of land, with an equal extent of adjacent marine waters. This area is internationally recognized for its exceptional birdlife, supporting hundreds of thousands of migratory shorebirds annually, including Semipalmated Sandpipers (Calidris pusilla), and hosting impressive populations of resident species such as the Scarlet Ibis (Eudocimus ruber). 

In the scope of the annual celebration of the World Wetlands Day, the Mangrove+ Project shines light the essential role of wetlands in safeguarding coastal communities, supporting biodiversity, and strengthening resilience to climate change. The project calls on all stakeholders, including local communities, policymakers, civil society, and development partners, to continue advancing the protection, restoration, and sustainable use of these vital ecosystems. 

The Mangrove+ Project is financed by the European Union (EU), implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in collaboration with the Government of Suriname.