Side event details

The Southern Africa Ramsar Regional Initiative (SARRI) was established under the Ramsar Convention to promote wetland conservation across the SADC. Following its adoption at the Ramsar COP14 in 2022 made possible by the SADC Secretariat together with IUCN ESARO, and with the support of a program funded by the French Biodiversity Agency and the French Ministry of Ecological Transition (implemented by NatureXpairs and leveraging the expertise of MedWet), SARRI has worked to build a governance structure, secure partnerships, and develop a strategic framework. A significant milestone was the first SARRI workshop held in La Réunion in May 2024, where representatives from member states and key partners defined the initiative’s Terms of Reference, outlined its governance model, and drafted the La Réunion Declaration. This declaration confirmed the IUCN ESARO as the host organisation and set the foundation for SARRI’s operational framework. As at January 2025, the SARRI has endorsed TORs and established governance by electing a steering committee, with Zambia as chair and South Africa as co-chair, ensuring leadership continuity.

Objectives 

The main objective of the launch is to formally introduce SARRI and raise awareness about its mission to support a wide range of conservation and development opportunities in wetland landscapes across the SADC region. The event aims to highlight the importance of wetlands as critical ecosystems for biodiversity, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods. By engaging key stakeholders, the launch will emphasize the need for collaborative efforts to address pressing environmental challenges while promoting socio-economic development.

In addition to building awareness, the launch is an important initial step in identifying and reaching potential development partners, including governments, NGOs, the private sector, and donors. These partners will play a crucial role in mobilizing financial and technical resources to advance SARRI’s objectives. The event will also facilitate networking, strengthen relationships among stakeholders, and set the stage for future collaborative efforts in managing and conserving wetland ecosystems across the region. Through the launch, we aim to build a strong foundation for the long-term success and sustainability of SARRI’s initiatives.

Expected Outcomes

• Formally introduce SARRI and raise awareness about its mission to support a wide range of conservation and development opportunities in wetland landscapes across the SADC region. The event will highlight the vital role wetlands play in biodiversity, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods, reinforcing the need for collaborative efforts to address environmental challenges while promoting socio-economic development.
• The launch will also announce a major milestone in the implementation of the SARRI initiative, marking a key moment in its journey. This event carries significant political importance, as it demonstrates the commitment of SADC member states to cooperative efforts in wetland conservation and sustainable development. The launch will showcase the collaboration between SADC and key partners such as IUCN, OFB, GEF, WWF, BirdLife, and others, underscoring the shared commitment to protecting the region’s natural resources.
• Furthermore, the launch will provide a valuable platform for engaging SADC’s International Cooperating Partners (ICPs) and other development stakeholders. It will serve as an opportunity to highlight the progress of SARRI and invite further investment in the initiative. By bringing together key regional and international players, the launch will help build strong partnerships and create momentum for securing the necessary resources—both financial and technical—to advance the SARRI objectives. As SARRI aims to grow and expand its reach, this event will set the stage for increased collaboration and ensure that the initiative attracts the support needed for its long-term success and sustainabilities

Catering Menu & Beverages Provided!!

Opening Session Moderator: Government of Zimbabwe  13:30-14:00 (30 minutes)
Opening Remarks and Keynote Speeches
The Southern Africa Ramsar Regional Initiative (SARRI) will mark a key milestone with the launch of its Draft First-Order Strategic Plan. This unveiling will showcase the collective progress made by Member States and partners in advancing wetland conservation across the region. It will also underscore the critical role wetlands play in supporting Southern Africa’s ecosystems and livelihoods, while highlighting how SARRI aligns with SADC policies —particularly those focused on transboundary natural resource management and Transfrontier Conservation Areas (TFCAs). The event will demonstrate how SARRI, as a Ramsar Regional Initiative, is effectively translating public policy into action and fostering cooperation to protect the region’s wetlands for future generations. 
•Opening remarks from the Government of Zimbabwe (MINISTER) (5MINS)
•Secretary General Ramsar Convention: Dr Musonda Mumba (3MINS)
•SADC Secretariat: Sibongile Mavimbela, Senior Programme Officer, Environment and Climate Change (3MINS)
•Mr. Luther Bois Anukur, Regional Director, IUCN Eastern and Southern Africa, International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) (3 MINS)

•Government of Zambia Keynote Speech: Hon. Rodney Sikumba MP (10MINS)

Panel Discussion 14:01 – 14:11(10 minutes)
Reflecting on 18 Months of SARRI: Collaboration, Achievements, and Future Challenges: The SARRI Story
In this brief session discussion, the panel will emphasise the collaborative efforts that have brought us together, highlighting the unique roles each partner has played in advancing the SARRI initiative. We will reflect on the significant achievements made over the past 18 months, showcasing the progress we have collectively accomplished. Additionally, the panel will address the challenges that SARRI now faces as it moves forward, focusing on the key issues that need to be tackled to ensure the continued success and sustainability of the initiative.
•Video 2mins
•SARRI Chair – Sandra Ponde 4 MINS
•SARRI Partners - OFB -Florent Merle and NatureXpairs - Emmanuelle Sarat 4 MINS

14:12-14:20 Q & A 
The Moderator opens the floor for any questions from the audience.
2 QUESTIONS ONLY

Closing Remarks 14:26 – 14:30 (5 minutes)
This session will conclude the event with closing remarks from the Governments of Seychelles and Mozambique in French and Portuguese