Impacts of Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) on the Fishing Communities of Lake Naivasha, Kenya

Abstract

A survey was conducted on the three gazetted landing beaches along the shores of Lake Naivasha by Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute staff. The objectives of the study were to assess the existing knowledge and perception of the fisher community on the causes and impacts of the water hyacinth in Lake Naivasha and to identify and recommend possible solutions to control the hyacinth infestation. The study found that the fisher communities are very knowledgeable of the effect of the water hyacinth. Observing fish kills caused by oxygen depletion as a major impact of water hyacinth infestation which also impacted negatively on their socio- economic status. With fishing observed as their main occupation they recommended that the resource managers strive to stem Proliferation of the water hyacinth in order to create a viable condition for fishery production. Their hope of sustaining themselves economically would be made possible through participatory management approach in ensuring that the health of the lake’s ecosystem is kept in check.