Transforming an Ecological Challenge

Water hyacinth, an invasive aquatic weed, poses a significant threat to the ecosystem of Lake Naivasha in Kenya, affecting both biodiversity and the local fishing industry. The overgrowth of this weed is linked to agricultural practices around the lake, where fertilizers and pesticides have unintentionally contributed to its rapid spread. Efforts to manage its proliferation are critical not only for ecological balance but also for supporting the livelihoods of fishermen who rely on the lake for their catch. By harvesting the water hyacinth, local fishermen aim to tackle this ecological issue while simultaneously finding economically viable ways to repurpose the weed.