Victoria Falls Schools Rally for Wetlands at Ramsar Competition

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe – Chinotimba Hall buzzed with youthful energy as primary and secondary schools from Victoria Falls competed in the Ramsar Wetlands Competition.

The event underscored a powerful community commitment to environmental stewardship and youth education.

Thirteen primary schools (including Kings, Shalom, Peace, Chamabondo, Chinotimba, Baobab, St Bakita, Education Center, Grace Mission, and Mother Touch Group) tackled wetlands, climate change, local municipal significance, and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Ten secondary schools (Mosi oa Tunya, Oasis Christian Academy, Lulu, Lesedi, Hudini, Dadani, Waterfalls Academy, Grace Mission High) were tested on wetland policies, water-related SDGs, youth challenges in sustainable development, and wetland preservation strategies.

High school debates ignited critical discussions. Teams from Mkhosana Adventist vs. Oasis, Mosi oa Tunya vs. Hudini, Waterfalls vs. Lesedi, and Grace vs. Dadani clashed over core issues: the effectiveness of government wetland policies, whether communities or government bear primary responsibility for preservation, and the contentious practice of constructing on wetland sites.

Poetry became a poignant medium for environmental pleas. Students from both levels delivered powerful recitals centered on the theme “Preservation of Wetlands,” articulating a “silent cry for help” from these vital ecosystems. Their message was clear: protecting wetlands is everyone’s duty, not solely the government’s.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) delivered a stark presentation on drug abuse. Detective Constable Moyo and a colleague detailed the dangers of substances like skin-lightening creams (diprozona), crystal meth (“mutoriro”), marijuana (“dhaha”), body enlargement products, and restricted medicines like “broncho.” Constable Moyo emphasized the severe health consequences, particularly brain damage from crystal meth, concluding with a rallying cry: “When we see the young generation, we see the leaders of tomorrow”

The successful competition was made possible by sponsors including Wild Horizons, The Shrub, Mvhiringi and Associates, Forestry Commission, Environmental Management Authority, Shearwater Adventures, and Leonard Ncube.

Their backing demonstrated a shared commitment to preserving Victoria Falls’ unique wetlands and empowering its youth as environmental champions. The event resonated with a unifying message: “Together, we can do it.”

By: Buhle Bhebhe