In Sierra Leone, the 2025 local theme chosen by the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation “Water Ecosystem Preservation,” underscores the urgent need to protect the country’s vital water resources amid increasing environmental threats.
With growing deforestation, pollution, and climate change impacts, preserving water ecosystems is essential for the well-being of Sierra Leone’s population and biodiversity.
Sierra Leone boasts a diverse range of water ecosystems, including rivers, wetlands, and coastal areas, which are crucial for human consumption, agriculture, and hydropower. Major rivers such as the Rokel, Sewa, and Moa provide freshwater to millions, while wetlands, such as the Sierra Leone River Estuary, serve as important ecological zones.
However, these ecosystems face numerous challenges:
- Deforestation and Land Degradation: Unregulated logging, slash-and-burn agriculture, and mining have led to significant forest loss, affecting watersheds and reducing water retention capacities.
- Water Pollution: Industrial discharge, domestic waste, and mining runoff contribute to the contamination of water bodies, endangering aquatic life and public health.
- Climate Change Impacts: Erratic rainfall patterns, rising temperatures, and prolonged droughts threaten water availability and increase the risk of waterborne diseases.
- Urban Expansion and Encroachment: Rapid urbanization, particularly in Freetown and other major cities, leads to the encroachment of water catchment areas, increasing the pressure on existing water resources.
Government and Community Initiatives for Water Conservation
Recognizing the importance of protecting water ecosystems, the government of Sierra Leone and various stakeholders have undertaken initiatives to combat water-related challenges:
1.Legislation and Policy Enforcement
- The government has implemented regulations to protect critical water catchment areas, including restrictions on deforestation and mining in key watersheds.
- The establishment of the National Water Resources Management Agency (NWRMA) ensures sustainable water governance and policy enforcement.
In addition to these efforts, the Government of Sierra Leone on Tuesday, March 18, unveiled an ambitious environmental protection plan under the Protect Sierra Leone program, announced by Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Jiwoh Abdulai, at the first-ever Forest and Climate Forum in Freetown.
This forum marks a major step in Sierra Leone’s environmental protection efforts, bringing together key stakeholders to drive sustainable solutions.
Key Aspects of the Plan:
1.Biodiversity Protection – Safeguarding critical terrestrial ecosystems through integrated landscape management.
2.Community Forest Expansion – Increasing community-led forest conservation initiatives.
3.Marine Resource Management – Sustainable policies for protecting the country’s marine ecosystems.
4.Deforestation Reduction – Addressing deforestation by promoting affordable cooking fuel alternatives.
Government and International Support:
- The Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh reaffirmed the government’s commitment and highlighted initiatives like the first Forest Inventory since 1975 and a biodiversity financing framework.
- Conservation International pledged increased support and announced the opening of a local office in Sierra Leone.
- World Bank Commitment – A $60 million project focusing on water security at the Western Area Peninsula Park.
2.Reforestation and Conservation Efforts
- Tree planting campaigns are being conducted across the country to restore degraded forests and improve watershed management.
- The Western Area Peninsula National Park, which supplies water to Freetown, has been the focus of reforestation projects aimed at reducing soil erosion and improving water quality.
3.Community Engagement and Education.
- Awareness campaigns on water conservation and pollution prevention are being carried out in schools and local communities across the country.
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) such as the Conservation Society of Sierra Leone (CSSL) work closely with local communities to promote biodiversity and sustainable water management practices.
4.Investment in Water Infrastructure
- The government and international partners are investing in improved water supply systems, including boreholes, reservoirs, and sanitation facilities, to ensure clean and safe drinking water.
- Water treatment plants are being upgraded to tackle water pollution and enhance supply efficiency.
The Role of Citizens in Water Ecosystem Preservation While government initiatives are crucial, individual and community participation is equally important. Citizens can contribute by:
- Reducing plastic waste and avoiding littering in water bodies.
- Practicing sustainable farming techniques to prevent soil erosion and water pollution.
- Participating in tree planting and conservation activities.
- Supporting local and national policies aimed at protecting water resources.
The theme of “Water Ecosystem Preservation” for World Water Day 2025 highlights the need for collective action to safeguard Sierra Leone’s water resources. Through sustainable policies, community engagement, and responsible environmental stewardship, Sierra Leone can ensure that its water ecosystems remain resilient and continue to support future generations.
Protecting these ecosystems is not just an environmental duty but a necessity for national development, public health, and biodiversity conservation.
Guma Communication Unit
21/3/25
