Dear Colleagues, As we approach the final weeks of the year, I hope this message finds you well. December is flying by, and it's a natural time for reflection. This year has been nothing short of extraordinary. While I won’t pre-empt the details that will be shared in upcoming updates, I’d like to take a moment to highlight a few memorable experiences. I recently returned from my first visit to Colombia, where I had the privilege of attending the UN Biodiversity COP16 in Cali. The UNCBD COP marked the first of the "Rio Trio" COPs, opening the dialogue about biodiversity and wetlands. While there, I also explored some of the inner-city wetlands in the vibrant city of Bogotá—Humedal Santa Maria del Lago and Humedal de Cordoba. Both were an inspiring reminder of the important work we do. From Cali, the spotlight shifted to Baku, Azerbaijan, for the UN Climate COP29. The Secretariat participated in a number of events, and wetlands featured prominently in the conversations—we cannot talk about biodiversity or climate change without mentioning the role wetlands play in both. Now, we turn our focus to Riyadh, where the UNCCD Desertification COP16 is in progress. This marks the final instalment of the "Rio Trio" COPs for the year. I am participating in many events and discussions, and will share insights from all three conferences ahead of the 64th Standing Committee meeting in January 2025. Over the past months, I’ve had the pleasure of welcoming many diplomats and partners to our Secretariat in Gland. These visits have provided an opportunity to strengthen collaborations, exchange ideas, and explore innovative ways to advance our shared goals for wetland conservation and restoration. The months ahead promise to be busy as we prepare for SC64, but I hope we all find time during the holiday season to rest and recharge. I want to thank each of you for your commitment and support throughout what has been a truly rewarding year. Thank you, as always, for reading and for staying connected through our newsletter. Keep an eye out for more updates, news stories, and features on our website in the coming weeks. Warm regards,
Dr Musonda Mumba
Secretary General, Convention on Wetlands |
