Why protecting the ice giants secures our future
Every year on 22 March, World Water Day reminds us of the importance of water and calls for the sustainable use of this vital resource. The motto of World Water Day 2025 is: ‘Preserving the glaciers’. Why is this important? Glaciers are huge water reservoirs that supply millions of people with drinking water. But climate change is causing them to melt - with dramatic consequences for the global water supply.
Why are glaciers so important?
Glaciers store around 70 % of the earth's fresh water. They feed rivers, supply ecosystems and provide drinking water for countless people around the world. Especially in arid regions such as many parts of Africa, rivers fed by glaciers are an indispensable source of water.
Which African rivers are fed by glaciers?
There are also glaciers in Africa, especially in the high mountains such as Mount Kilimanjaro, the Rwenzori Mountains and Mount Kenya. The glaciers of these mountains feed important rivers such as:
- The Pangani River (Tanzania): It originates from the glaciers of Kilimanjaro and supplies many communities with water.
- The Mara River (Kenya/Tanzania): This vital river, which flows through the Serengeti, is partly fed by glaciers on Mount Kenya.
- The Nile catchment area: Glaciers from the Rwenzori Mountains help feed the White Nile, which is vital for millions of people in East Africa.
The retreat of these glaciers means less water for agriculture, drinking water supplies and ecosystems - with serious consequences for people and nature.
The effects of glacier retreat
- Water shortage: Melting glaciers mean less water for agriculture and drinking water supplies.
- Sea level rise: Melting glaciers contribute to rising sea levels and threaten coastal regions.
- Extreme weather: The loss of glaciers influences weather phenomena and increases droughts and floods.
Our contribution as an NGO
Our non-profit organisation is committed to providing access to clean water in Africa. The protection of glaciers affects us directly: without these water reservoirs, many regions would face water shortages. That is why we are committed to sustainable water projects and educate people about the responsible use of water in our workshops and seminars.
What can you do?
- Use water consciously: Every drop counts - reduce your water consumption in everyday life.
- Reduce your CO₂ footprint: climate protection is glacier protection! Fewer emissions mean less global warming.
- Donations & commitment: Support our water projects
World Water Day 2025 is about more than just ice - it's about our future.
