Wetland Destruction Trends in Three African Cities and Their Sustainability Implications

Sustainable city development encompasses the integration of the natural environment; as such, key ecosystems such as wetlands are essential in ensuring ecological equilibrium and urban sustainability. Rapid urbanisation, weak regulatory frameworks, and socioeconomic pressures have led to a massive degradation of urban wetlands in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This study examines the rate of wetland depletion in Dar es Salaam, Accra and Lagos, primarily relying on satellite imagery from the year 2000 to 2024. The result of the study is worrying and shows significant wetland loss across these three major cities. For instance, the rate of wetlands coverage in Dar es Salaam dropped from 11% in 2004 to 6% in 2024, while the coverage of built-up/developed areas rose from 18% to 67%. Land cover results for Accra and Lagos also showed similar trends. These changes over time suggest the need to adopt innovative, tried and tested approaches that can be used to protect the natural environment in developing countries. The study recommends approaches such as Conservation easements, Purchase of Development Rights (PDR), Transfer of Development Rights (TDR), and Urban Growth Boundaries (UGB) for the protection and preservation of wetlands in SSA. Incorporating these into urban planning and public awareness campaigns can help stop more loss and create sustainable urban futures in SSA cities.