Morocco hosts the African regional preparatory meeting for the 15th Session of the Conference of the Parties to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (COP15)
This article was automatically translated from HIBAPRESS, the Arabic version:
HIBAPRESS-RABAT
Marrakech, city of heritage and international cooperation, hosts from January 8 to 10, 2025 the African regional meeting preparatory to the 15th Session of the Conference of the Parties to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (COP15). This major event brings together delegates from 40 African countries parties to the Ramsar Convention, international partner organizations, as well as experts in wetland management.
This meeting aims to harmonize African positions and debate strategic issues linked to the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands, in preparation for COP15 scheduled for July 2025. The discussions focus on several key themes, including:
The new Ramsar Strategic Plan 2025-2034, which sets ambitious goals, such as promoting the designation of new sites of international importance to strengthen ecological connectivity, particularly for migratory bird habitats. • The role of wetlands in the implementation of the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), adopted at COP15 of the Convention on Biological Diversity, as essential spaces for biodiversity and climate resilience. The institutional strengthening of the Ramsar Convention, aiming to improve its governance framework, its international recognition and the mobilization of funding for the conservation of these vital ecosystems.
Morocco’s commitment to wetlands
During the opening ceremony, chaired by Mr. Abderrahim Houmy, Director General of the National Agency for Water and Forests (ANEF), the Kingdom’s efforts in the conservation of water resources and wetlands were highlighted. Before. Mr. Houmy stressed that, since its accession to the Ramsar Convention in 1980, Morocco has included 38 sites on the List of Wetlands of International Importance.
In accordance with the High Royal Instructions of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God help him, the Kingdom continues its firm commitment to the preservation of humid ecosystems. The “Forests of Morocco 2020-2030” Strategy, launched by His Majesty in 2020, offers concrete solutions to protect and restore these ecosystems, while improving the living conditions of local populations and reconciling citizens with these natural spaces.
In this context, ANEF plans: • The registration of 10 new Ramsar sites by the end of 2025, bringing the national total to 48 wetlands of international importance.
Strengthening technical tools and governance bodies for better coordination between state, non-state actors and international partners.
Morocco, key player within the Ramsar Convention
Member of the Permanent Committee of the Ramsar Convention for the period 2022-2025 as representative of the North Africa sub-region, Morocco plays a strategic role in international environmental governance bodies. This position allows him to carry the voice of Africa to address the challenges of conservation, restoration and sustainable use of African wetlands. Strengthened regional and international commitment
The Marrakech meeting constitutes an essential platform to consolidate cooperation between African countries and promote cross-border partnerships aimed at the conservation of biodiversity and wetlands. Through this event, Morocco reaffirms its role as regional leader and its support for any initiative in favor of the preservation of these ecosystems, essential for sustainable development and the fight against the effects of climate change.
