Aquatic weed problem in Lake Jipe

Abstract

Lake Jipe is in Mwanga District, Kilimanjaro Region, and lies on the border with Kenya. A stream drains from the lake southward through a wetland and empties its waters in Nyumba ya Mungu dam some kilometers downstream. The lake is a source of water for domestic use and for livestock and supports a moderate fishery for local population in the surrounding areas. The surrounding wetland harbours plants that the local people use to make some handcraft e.g. baskets, and mats. The lake and the surrounding area could be developed into a recreational area and eco-tourism.