Arusha — TANZANIA's water bird species are in
danger of extinction due to drying off of wetlands, a situation contributed by
climatic change.
Speaking during the 13th Pan-African
Ornithological Congress (PAOC 13), taking place here, the Minister for Natural
Resources and Tourism, Ambassador Khamisi Kagasheki, said effects of climate
change and increasing human activities in reserves and wetlands are to blame
for the situation.
The country is said to have more than 1,500 bird
species, but already 30 of them are at the verge of extinction, with water bird
species topping the list. Some of the endangered aquatic birds include ducks,
geese, swans, magpie geese, screamers. Others are storks, herons, egrets,
ibises, spoonbills and pelicans.
The drying off of Lake Manyara which is one of
the breeding sites for the pink flamingos is one of the examples cited. 'The
speed at which wetlands are drying off is worrying us, so there is need to put
in place remarkable measures to address the situation, as water birds depend on
such eco-systems for their reproduction and survival," he said.
Ambassador Kagasheki promised that his ministry
will work on the matter and rescue the important resource for the current and
future generations. 'Drying off of wetlands is a threat to water bird species,
which depend on it for their survival. So, among other issues, PAOC meeting
will provide a good platform for experts in wild birds to extensively discuss
and exchange views on how to conserve the sector."
He also noted that birdwatching, a popular hobby
around the world, can present significant economic opportunities for countries
through sustainable tourism. "Birding plays a significant and growing part
in the tourism industry and creates direct and indirect economic benefits for
many countries and communities, also amongst developing countries.
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