By Ndatenda Njanike (Press and Communications Officer)

THE third of March this year the world celebrates 50 years of the creation of the Convention on International trade in Endangered species which was signed in 1973.

March three has been set aside by the United Nations to celebrate all wild animals and plants for their contribution to human lives and the health of the earth.

This year’s celebrations will run with the theme “Partnerships for Wildlife Conservation” and incorporate various stakeholders from governments, civil society, and the private sector to turn commitment into action.

‘Human activities are laying waste to once-thriving forests, jungles, farmland, oceans, rivers, seas, and lakes. 

‘One million species teeter on the brink of extinction, due to habitat destruction, fossil fuel pollution, and the worsening climate crisis. 

‘We must end this war on nature. 

‘The good news is that we have the tools, the knowledge, and the solutions. 

‘This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, which has helped protect thousands of plants and animals.  

‘And last year’s agreement on the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework marked an important step towards putting our planet on a path to healing. 

‘As this year’s theme – ‘Partnerships for Wildlife Conservation’ – highlights, we need to work across governments, civil society, and the private sector to turn commitment into action.  

‘And we need much bolder actions now to cut emissions, accelerate renewables, and build climate resilience. Wrote António Guterres United Nations Secretary-General.

The Third of March has also been put aside to celebrate Africa Environmental Day.