Africa's Water Towers Have Been Overlooked for Too Long

Natural water towers play a significant role in shaping both global and local climates. They are the origin of the majority of rivers. They support biodiversity and are refuges and bridges for many species, writes Mauro Lourenço for African Arguments.

In the next decade, climate change is going to affect drinking water for people, for agriculture, for industry, and for nature and ecosystems. In Africa's water towers, we're talking about the water security of the world's fastest growing population. Not only are they scientifically important, but they're also often sacred, spiritual places for communities. It's time to challenge the traditional definition of a water tower looks like so that Africa's water towers, the resources they provide, and the communities who depend on them receive their due protection.