ARCOS Members Celebrate Wetlands Day in Style at Nyandungu Eco Park

By Ange de la Victoire DUSABEMUNGU

Kigali, Rwanda –8 February 2025: The Albertine Rift Conservation Society (ARCOS) marked World Wetlands Day (WWD) in grand style by organizing an engaging expedition at Nyandungu Eco Park on 8 February 2025.

The event brought together ARCOS members and wetland stakeholders to celebrate this year’s WWD theme, “Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future.”

Nyandungu Eco Park, a model of wetland restoration, provided a fitting platform for participants to actively observe and document local biodiversity, wetland health, and ecological restoration efforts through Citizen Science.

With a special focus on youth involvement, the event empowered young conservationists to contribute firsthand data, fostering environmental stewardship and awareness.

In alignment with the Living Lakes Biodiversity and Climate Project (LLBCP)—an initiative implemented by ARCOS in collaboration with the Government of Rwanda, the Global Nature Fund (GNF) and other partners—this celebration highlighted the critical role of wetlands in climate resilience, ecological balance, and sustainable water management.

Participants engaged in birdwatching, vegetation identification, and discussions on the importance of wetland conservation.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Sam Kanyamibwa, Chief Executive Officer of ARCOS, emphasized the significance of wetlands in maintaining biodiversity and climate resilience.

“Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems on Earth, yet they continue to face immense threats. Through initiatives like this, we aim to ensure wetlands receive the protection they deserve,” he stated.

The expedition underscored ARCOS’ commitment to fostering community-driven conservation efforts while spreading awareness about the pressing need to safeguard wetlands. As World Wetlands Day is observed globally, events such as this reinforce the value of collaborative conservation in protecting these crucial ecosystems for future generations.