In partnership with local municipalities and stakeholders, the Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency (ECPTA) marked World Wetlands Day with a comprehensive array of activities designed to celebrate and raise awareness about the importance of wetlands. The event, held at Mgezwa Junior Secondary School (JSS) in Lusikisiki, became a vibrant knowledge hub. Participants engaged in educational talks, interactive exhibitions, and guided nature walks, each crafted to spotlight the wetlands’ vital role in our ecosystem.
Lwazi Khuzwayo, the Mkhambathi Nature Reserve Manager, played a pivotal role in these celebrations. He highlighted how wetlands are crucial for biodiversity, water purification, and climate mitigation. His talks underscored the symbiotic relationship between humans and these natural habitats, emphasising their value for environmental health and the socio-economic well-being of communities.
Parallel to environmental education, the Career Expo emerged as a key highlight, offering a dynamic platform for the youth. Here, students discovered various career opportunities in environmental conservation and tourism. This initiative was more than just a day’s event; it was a stepping stone for future environmental stewards and tourism professionals to inspire a deep-rooted commitment to conservation and sustainable development in the Eastern Cape.
