The Secretary General of the SADC Parliamentary Forum, Boemo Sekgoma, emphasised the urgent need for environmental stewardship on this year's World Environment Day. 

The theme, "Our Land, Our Future," highlights the critical focus on land restoration, combating desertification, and enhancing drought resilience.

Sekgoma's statement underscores the alarming state of global ecosystems. 

She cited data from the UN Convention to Combat Desertification, which reveals that up to 40% of the planet's land is degraded, impacting half of the global population. 

With droughts increasing by 29% since 2000, the UN warns that, without immediate action, these conditions could affect over three-quarters of the world's population by 2050.

Recognising the crucial role of parliaments in shaping and enforcing environmental regulations, the Secretary-General stressed the need for climate-resilient policies, oversight functions, and collaborative efforts involving governments, civil society, the private sector, and local communities.

Sekgoma urged the prioritisation of initiatives to enhance adaptive capacities, protect endangered species, promote efficient resource use, prevent overexploitation, reduce pollution, and encourage cleaner production methods. 

Public awareness and participation were highlighted as essential components for the success of environmental stewardship.