WORLD WETLANDS DAY 2025: CELEBRATING CONSERVATION AT ONDIRI WETLAND, KENYA
Introduction
On February 2, 2025, Kenya joined the world in celebrating World Wetlands Day. Held at Alliance High School rugby grounds, near the Ondiri Wetland in Kiambu County, the National Celebrations explored this year’s theme, “Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future,” underscoring the vital role wetlands play in sustaining both human life and the environment.
The event brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, conservationists, environmental organisations, and local communities, all committed to safeguarding these invaluable ecosystems. Notable attendees included:
- Dr. Eng. Festus Ngeno – Principal Secretary, Environment and Climate Change;
- Mamo B. Mamo – Director General, The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA);
- Representatives from Water Resources Authority (WRA) National Environmental Complaints Committee (NECC), Africa Water Ambassadors, Nairobi Rivers Commission, Kenya Forest Service (KFS), Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), Kikuyu Water, World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), Kenya Forestry Research, and the Environment Institute of Kenya;
- Local leaders, county officials, and community representatives, including James Boro (MCA Kikuyu Ward), Jane Murage (Managing Director of Kikuyu Water and Sanitation Company), Mr. Kamau Mwaura (Chief Principal of Alliance High School), Mr. Henry Wafula (Kiambu County Commissioner), Mr. Kamau (Kikuyu MP Representative);
- Community conservation champions such as Friends of Ondiri Wetland.
The presence of diverse partners reinforced the urgency of wetland conservation and the collaborative efforts required to protect these natural resources.
Event Highlights
Ondiri Wetland Conservation Run
On February 1, 2025, the 4th edition of the Ondiri Wetland Run brought together hundreds of participants for 5KM, 10KM, and 21KM races. Led by Dr. Eng. Festus Ngeno, the run was not only a fitness event but also a powerful platform for raising awareness about wetland conservation.
Tree-Planting and Wetland Tour
Participants took part in a tree-planting ceremony aimed at promoting water conservation and restoring degraded areas of the wetland. A guided tour provided deeper insights into Ondiri Wetland’s ecosystem, history, and conservation efforts.
Band Procession
A vibrant marching band led a procession through Kikuyu Town, symbolising the collective commitment needed to protect wetlands. The spectacle engaged the community and emphasised the importance of public participation in conservation efforts.
Key Discussions & Call to Action
The Role of Wetlands in Climate Mitigation
Experts highlighted how wetlands act as natural carbon sinks, flood control systems, and biodiversity hotspots. NEMA and UNEP representatives emphasised their role in absorbing excess rainwater and reducing the impact of climate change.
Community Involvement in Wetland Conservation
Residents were urged to:
- Properly dispose of waste to prevent pollution;
- Engage in tree-planting initiatives to protect wetland areas;
- Adopt sustainable farming practices near wetlands to prevent overuse of water resources.
Government Commitment to Wetland Protection
Dr. Eng. Festus Ngeno reaffirmed the government’s pledge to strengthen wetland policies, increase funding for restoration projects, and collaborate with local and international partners to enhance conservation efforts.
Conclusion
World Wetlands Day 2025 was more than just a celebration—it was a call to action. The unity displayed by the Ondiri community, conservation groups, and government stakeholders was a strong reminder that every effort, no matter how small, contributes to a larger, lasting impact. As the event concluded with a tree-planting exercise, it symbolised collective action to protect wetlands for future generations. The future of our wetlands—and our planet—is in our hands.
Click on this link to learn more about World Wetland Day celebrations and conservation efforts in Kenya.