Caxito - The conservation of mangroves is a strategic priority for Angola, as it reflects a commitment to environmental sustainability and the protection of coastal communities, said the National Environment Director, Sandra do Nascimento.
Speaking at the 1st provincial seminar on mangroves, the director said that in the near future the Ministry of Environment plans to strengthen environmental policies, revise and update environmental laws with the inclusion of stricter rules for the protection of mangroves and their integration into development plans.
‘Mangroves are fundamental for environmental protection, mitigating climate change, promoting biodiversity and food security for local communities,’ Nascimento said.
Sandra do Nascimento said Angola has taken concrete measures to protect these vital ecosystems and ensure a more resilient future to climate change through robust national policies, practical initiatives and community engagement.
In the process of Angola joining the Ramsar Convention (wetlands of international importance as waterfowl habitat), 11 Ramsar sites were identified in the country - the Lobito mangrove lagoons (Benguela), Saco dos Flamingos (Luanda), Lagoa do arco (Namibe), Cameia National Park (Moxico) and the Carumbo lagoon wetland complex (Lunda Norte).
The Calumbo and Quilunda lagoons (Luanda), Praia do Santiago (Bengo), Chiloango mangrove lagoon (Cabinda), Lower Cuanza (Luanda-Bengo) and the Kumbilo-Dirico wetlands complex (Cuando Cubango) are also included.
As part of the International Day for Mangrove Conservation (26 July), the NGO Otchiva is holding seminars in the provinces of Cabinda, Zaire, Bengo and Luanda to strengthen partnerships and define future actions for mangrove conservation in Angola. MD/CJ/IF/DAN/AMP
