26 Sep 2022

The Okavango Delta plays a pivotal role in mitigating climate change due to its ability to capture carbon from the atmosphere.

This was said by Okavango Research Institute (ORI) Biogeochemistry scholar Dr Mangaliso Gondwe at a panel discussion themed: Mmadikolo and the Okavango: Unlocking the Floods of Life.

He stated that wetlands had a positive impact in helping fight climate change and that their depletion meant more carbon emissions into the atmosphere.

Dr Gondwe expressed concern about people who set fire in the delta as that affected biodiversity and contributed to large amounts of carbon dioxide emissions.

He said it was important to take care of the environment, starting with applying simple mechanisms at individual level of non-pollution, avoiding veld fires and not mishandling the environment.

Dr Gondwe said there was need for the world to adapt to living in an era of climate change and engage in conversations in households, schools, work places and elsewhere about climate change as a cause of high mortality of livestock, poverty, low surface water quality and quantity.

He said wetlands were home to many plants and wildlife species as well as being a source of life for people and livestock.

Climate change programme at ORI aims to improve understanding and educate the public on effects of climate change and its mitigation measures, said Dr Gondwe.

A Professor of Rural development at ORI, Professor Toyin Kolawole stated that Okavango Delta was a treasure for Batswana as it attracted people from across the world.

Professor Kolawole said there was need for communities living in the Delta, to be part of decision making processes, so that they appreciated the natural resources in the delta and understand the impact of mishandling them.

He stated that community development in all stages of research was important because people who were born and raised in a particular area carried indigenous knowledge.

Professor Kalawole said ORI conducted research on fishing regulations, which was shared with the community, to ensure fishing was done in a sustainable manner. ENDS