Peatlands of Africa

Abstract

An abundance of different wetland types occur across the continent but the occurrence of peatlands is less common. Africa, the second largest landmass on earth, is a continent with diverse landscapes ranging from snow-capped mountains on the Equator (e.g., Kilimanjaro) to the world’s largest desert, the Sahara in the north, and Fynbos Biome the world’s richest and smallest floral kingdom located in South Africa. The variety of mires and peatlands on the world’s second largest continent are an expression of its diverse landscapes and associated climatic conditions. Local communities often depend on these peatlands (as with most other wetland types) for their livelihoods. However, these peatlands are often poorly managed and mostly severely degraded and in developing areas frequently threatened by future developments. Africa’s peatlands are poorly researched and inventories on where they occur and their conservation status are lacking. Many opportunities exist to do research, implement wise use practices and restoration.