In anticipation of World Rivers Day on Sunday, September 22, 2024, the Waitukubuli Advocate for Viable Environment (WAVE) has launched a public awareness campaign to highlight the importance of rivers across Dominica. This year’s global theme, “Waterways for a Sustainable Future,” underscores the critical role of rivers in sustainable development.
World Rivers Day, observed annually by the United Nations, aims to recognize the significance of rivers and other waterways, raise awareness about the threats they face, and promote better stewardship for sustainable development.
Annie Edwards, President of WAVE, emphasized the need to appreciate, care for, conserve, and protect rivers from destruction.
“We want Dominicans to go out and enjoy their rivers and care for their rivers. So we have a number of suggestions to observe and celebrate 2024 World Rivers Day. These include taking a bath in a river, planting a tree on the river bank, cleaning the riverside area, organizing a picnic, cook-up, or recreational activities. I encourage people to take care of the rivers in their communities. Go out and appreciate our rivers,” Edwards stated.
Edwards highlighted the economic, health, and environmental benefits that rivers provide.
“Dominicans have to understand the importance of the rivers. Our rivers provide us with fresh water, recreational opportunities, hydroelectric power, fish, and they are an attraction for the tourism industry. Just imagine a situation where our rivers disappear; it will definitely affect us,” she said.
Edwards also pointed out the global water crisis, noting, “Over 800 million people worldwide do not have access to clean water. While here in the Nature Isle of Dominica, we have an advantage; we are blessed with 365 rivers. They should not be taken for granted. However, some people abuse the rivers, they throw garbage into the river. When you love and appreciate something, you care for it, and I encourage everyone to take care of the rivers.”
Edwards, a former Chief Physical Planner, believes that public advocacy can drive governmental action.
“If people get serious and stand up for the protection of the rivers, then the authorities will follow suit and take action by implementing policies and enforcing the law,” she said. She also called for the establishment of a special department solely responsible for rivers.
As Dominica joins the global community in celebrating World Rivers Day, WAVE’s campaign aims to foster a deeper appreciation and commitment to preserving the island’s vital waterways.
What the government have to do is start a tree planting programme on the banks of the rivers,is should have started a long time ago.That is not happening.Take the once mighter Layou river,for miles from the river mouth all the way to BELLS one could not see the river from the public road,because of the trees.Today it is different all the trees are gone.Tree with taproots should be planted,mango,powyea,pwado,figea,galbar,Bwa-Banday, trees with big roots and big long branches.The government should pass a law to prevent people from cutting trees and building 10 feet from any river.The government e should employ armed security river payrolls to prevent people from dumping waste or cutting trees close to or in the rivers.
All you need to tell that to those Chinese who think they can just do what they want in our river. And the government is a huge culprit too because both of them in cahoots. Remember what they caused to happen in Castle Bruce? Looks that happening in Wesley now. I am SICK AND TIRED of these people destroying our country in name of false development. All now so he have them destroying Morne Daniel road to put concrete road around his new mansion causing how much disruption to the peaceful lives of the residents in the area. Who destroys a perfectly good PUBLIC road to rebuild one to match their house? Skerrit, thats who. He and those Chinese.
The population needs to understand the value of our rivers to thier lives. Hydroelectric use, agriculture, fisheries, tourism, festivals, tubing. all these have a tangible economic measurable benefit that is largely taken foregranted. when people know the value and worth they will fight to protect. I have not mentioned the supply of clean fresh water essential to life. Let’s not get to this.
https://youtu.be/pJVb2rfpBDk?si=MFG9EFMtdUAHfNAG