Africa Rivers calls for peace in Gaza
By Tony Nkhoma
AFRICAN Rivers, an International NGO, has expressed deep concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Palestine.
In a statement, Chief Executive Officer Dr Bobson Sikaala said the devastating impact of the conflict in Gaza was severely affecting the river system, wildlife, and human populations, with children bearing the brunt of the suffering.
Dr Sikaala described the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as dire, with over 1.5 million Palestinians displaced.
He said the Gaza population needed urgent medical assistance, food, nutrition, and water and sanitation services.
“The civilians, especially children, are facing unimaginable hardships, including violence, displacement, and loss, which are denying them their basic rights and freedoms,” he said.
Dr Sikaala said the rivers and other waterbodies in Gaza were equally in a dire situation as they were threatened by high levels of pollution, conflict, and neglect.
“The Wadi Gaza River system and nature reserve is under severe threat from pollution, including building debris, wastewater spills, and sewage discharge, posing serious health risks to the local population,” he said.
He said the conflict and environmental degradation had caused severe implications for wildlife, including the Palestinian sunbird, and ecosystems in the region.
“The health of our rivers and the well-being of our communities are closely linked. In Gaza, the lack of access to clean water and sanitation is a major concern due to the undesirable effects of the conflict,” Dr Sikaala said.
Dr Sikaala called on global leaders and philanthropists to unite towards upscaling humanitarian aid to Gaza and minimize the loss and suffering of innocent civilians, particularly children and the elderly.
“To effectively address this crisis, we recommend upscaling humanitarian efforts that provide aid, shelter, clean water, medicines, food, and protection to those in need, especially children and the elderly,” he said.
He urged the world to prioritise the protection and conservation of Gaza’s rivers and water resources by reducing pollution, promoting sustainable water management practices, and protecting riverine ecosystems.
Dr Sikaala challenged world leaders to unite and put aside any competing interests to support the people of Gaza, especially children, and work towards creating a more just and peaceful world.
