Gekco leads the charge in wetland conservation and education
The local community came together to celebrate World Wetland Day in Kyalami, where participants were able to find out what's being done to protect these vital ecosystems, and why they're crucial for our future.
On February 8, the Greater Kyalami Conservancy (Gekco) marked World Wetland Day with a wetland walk and talk event to highlight the vital importance of these ecosystems.
Wetlands play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity, filtering water, and mitigating the effects of climate change. Despite their significance, wetlands are facing unprecedented threats, with nearly 90% of the world’s wetlands lost or degraded.
“The event was a great success. The walk through the wetland was interactive, and people asked questions while experiencing a wetland up close. We learned about the characteristics of wetlands, their importance and legal status in South Africa,” said chairperson of Gecko Kristin Kallesen
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She said the highlight of the day was getting to see the giant bullfrogs up close – a male, female, and juvenile. “About 60 people attended. There has been a lot of interest shown in these events and we hope to hold another one next year.”
The theme for World Wetland Day 2025: Protecting wetlands for our common future, serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for action. Kallesen said Kyalami was unique, and that it had an abundance of wetlands, which was what inspired the organisation to host the wetland walk and talk event.
“Over the years, we are seeing less wildlife in these wetlands, due to several impacts,” she said. “We hope that participants come away with an understanding of how interesting and important wetlands are, not only for wildlife but for humanity, as wetlands benefit us all.”
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Kallesen explained that wetlands were vital as they acted as a sponge, absorbing storm water, and preventing flooding. “This helps prevent erosion and makes water available to us throughout the year. They also reduce carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, helping to mitigate climate change. We are more dependent on wetlands than we realise.”
The event featured a guided walk with wetland specialist Retief Grobler who educated participants about the biodiversity and wildlife that inhabit this wetland, such as the giant bullfrog and African grass owl.
“Both are heavily impacted by humans and are rarely seen,” said Kallesen. “Retief took us on a walk to understand the wetlands better, and the unique habitat they provide. Gekco actively engages with property owners and developers to help them understand the importance of wetlands. We also monitor the endangered species found here.
“People can get involved by attending our cleanups and educational events, and signing up as members. We keep people informed of threats this area is facing. We all must ensure we have a sustainable environment, now and in the future.”
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