Beekeeping: Turning Wetland Stewardship into Livelihoods.

By promoting apiculture among wetland-dependent communities, UNDP is advancing nature-based solutions that integrate conservation with sustainable livelihoods. Beekeeping flourishes in ecologically intact wetlands, where diverse vegetation and healthy tree cover support pollinator activity. This approach not only enhances local income opportunities but also reinforces the ecological value of wetlands, encouraging communities to actively protect, restore, and sustainably manage these critical ecosystems in line with the Ramsar Convention and global biodiversity goals.

In 2022, two honey processing centres were completed in Mbire and Muzarabani, directly benefiting 1,206 beekeepers (723 men, 483 women). Earlier, in 2021, community beekeepers harvested 4,371 kg of honey during the first flow season, with improved grade-A pricing that encouraged higher quality production. Beyond livelihoods, beekeeping has become a tool for coexistence: in 2022, beehives were deployed as a “bio-fence” along elephant corridors, reducing crop raids and strengthening stewardship of wetland landscapes.

Tree Planting: Restoring Wetland Health.

Tree planting was another key theme UNDP amplified at COP15. Wetlands often degrade because of deforestation, soil erosion, and invasive species. Through reforestation and tree planting campaigns, UNDP is supporting communities and governments to bring life back to degraded wetland areas.

“Tree by tree, wetland landscapes are coming back to life. Local youth groups, with support from organizations such as UNDP, are leading reforestation drives that safeguard rivers and restore biodiversity.” COP15 President, Ambassador T. T. Chifamba, Secretary for Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife.

In 2021 alone, 264,460 trees were planted across ~149 hectares in Hurungwe, Mbire, and Muzarabani, supported by nurseries producing about 56,000 seedlings. To ensure sustainability, 10 boreholes (5 in Mbire, 5 in Hurungwe) were drilled, supplying water for communities, wildlife, and tree nurseries. These efforts stabilize soils, prevent siltation of rivers and marshes, and provide sustainable benefits like fruit, fuelwood, and shade that further strengthen the link between human wellbeing and wetland conservation.

Wetlands as Engines of Resilience.

UNDP placed wetlands squarely in the centre of the global discussion on climate resilience. These solutions demonstrate that protecting nature can also reduce poverty, create jobs, and safeguard future generations.

“Healthy wetlands mean healthy communities. From honey harvests to restored forests, nature-based solutions are our best defence against climate shocks.” Dr Ayodele Odusola, UNDP Zimbabwe Resident Representative.

The story of Monavale Vlei in Harare reflects the long-term impact of such efforts. Community-led restoration began in 2008 with a small GEF grant. By 2013, Zimbabwe had acceded to the Ramsar Convention following national advocacy. Since then, more than 120 indigenous wetland plants have been reintroduced, and over 230 bird species recorded, making Monavale a flagship urban wetland.

In Binga’s Masibinta Wetland, launched in mid-2023, 13 hectares were protected and rehabilitated. A 1,895-seedling nursery was established, while aquaculture and horticulture activities diversified community livelihoods. In 2024, the initiative won two national environmental awards.

Meanwhile, in the Midlands (Shurugwi/Zvishavane), by 2024, nine wetlands covering 237 hectares had been protected and rehabilitated. Eleven solar-powered boreholes now supply water to local agroecological gardens and market centres, benefiting more than 2,200 people ofwhich 63% of them are women.

Looking Forward 

UNDP remains committed to supporting the Government of Zimbabwe and regional partners in operationalizing the Southern Africa Ramsar Regional Initiative (SARRI) and implementing the resolutions adopted at COP15, ensuring wetlands continue to provide vital ecosystem services, protect biodiversity, and support resilient livelihoods across Southern Africa.

As COP15 closed, the resolutions adopted set a bold vision for restoring and conserving wetlands over the next decade. 

As the host country, Zimbabwe played a pivotal role in spotlighting the urgent need to reverse wetland degradation driven by deforestation, soil erosion, and invasive species. The adoption of the Victoria Falls Declaration reflects a strong regional consensus on the importance of political will, inclusive governance, and sustainable financing for wetland restoration.

A landmark achievement of COP15 was the official launch of the Southern Africa Ramsar Regional Initiative (SARRI)a collaborative platform designed to strengthen transboundary cooperation and capacity-building across the SADC region. SARRI will support the implementation of Ramsar priorities by aligning efforts among governments, civil society, and development partners to protect wetlands that sustain millions of lives.

For UNDP, the path forward is clear: continue investing in nature-based solutions that deliver multiple wins for people, nature, and climate. These outcomes align with our ongoing work to promote nature-based solutions and community-led restoration. When we invest in nature, nature invests back in us. Wetlands are life, and with nature-based solutions at the centre, UNDP reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that these ecosystems continue to sustain people and the planet well into the future. We remain committed to supporting the Government of Zimbabwe and local stakeholders in implementing the resolutions adopted at COP15, ensuring wetlands continue to provide essential ecosystem services, protect biodiversity, and sustain livelihoods across the country.