Lobito – The Association of Friends Defenders of the Environment (ADAMA) reiterated that cleaning the garbage thrown in the drainage ditch in the Cassai neighborhood, in Lobito City, is a priority for the wetlands requalification works.
According to ADAMA coordinator, Joaquim Teixeira, the obstruction of that channel by large amounts of garbage, mostly plastic, is the cause of the disappearance of several marine species that existed before.
"If this channel works in a normal way, it will help eliminate flooding, in the case of heavy rains, directing water to the sea and returning to the mangroves", he explained.
He also informed that the waters pass through an estuary that feeds not only the mangroves but also the marine ecosystem.
"The vegetation of this mangrove, which receives water from the Cassai ditch, was the place for the birds' niche and does not evolve due to water scarcity", he explained.
In his opinion, if the waters of the Catumbela River were reused, the ecosystem would be improved for the preservation and conservation of birds, especially the Flamingo, which is the city's "postcard".
"According to a survey carried out by international organizations in 1998, in which we participated, the city of Lobito was considered the region of Angola where there is the largest number of aquatic species", he disclosed.
Joaquim Teixeira argues that the Flamingo habitat must be improved so that the species reproduces with greater quality and efficiency.
"With the improved retention basins, we will have the replenishment of species", he stated with strong conviction.
Currently, the permanent birds at the place, according to the expert, are some herons, spoonbills, flamingos and some ducks.
TC/CRB/CF/jmc
