The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitat (RAMSAR)

HISTORY AND PRESENT STATUS

The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitat, known as the Ramsar Convention, provides the framework for international cooperation for the conservation of wetland habitats. The Convention entered into force in 1975 with Contracting Parties from regions throughout the world. Under the Convention, governments undertake to respect four main obligations:

to designate at least one wetland for inclusion in the List of Wetlands of International Importance (the List);
to promote the wise use of wetlands;
to consult with each other about the implementing of obligations arising from the Convention, especially, but not exclusively, in the case of a shared wetland or water system; and
to create wetland reserves.
The St Lucia System: Designated a Wetland of International Importance in 1986 and a World Heritage site in 1999, St Lucia represents one of the most important natural environments in Southern Africa. This Ramsar site is part of the largest estuarine system in Africa and has an area of 155, 500 hectares.

OTHER DEPARTMENTS AND COOPERATING ORGANISATIONS INVOLVED

Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism
Department of Mineral and Energy Affairs
Department of Water Affairs and Forestry
Provincial Government departments

GENERAL COMMENTS

South Africa became the fifth contracting Party to the Convention when it entered into force on 12 March 1975. South Africa has attended all the Conferences of the Parties to the Convention because of its interests in the preservation of its listed wetlands.