Lake Tana Nears Ecological Tipping Point As Water Hyacinth Spreads
Environmental experts warn that Lake Tana in Ethiopia is reaching an ecological tipping point due to the rapid spread of invasive water hyacinth. The weed threatens local biodiversity, water transport, and the livelihoods of millions who depend on the lake.
Why it matters
The degradation of Lake Tana poses a significant threat to regional food security, tourism, and the economic stability of the surrounding communities.
Lake Tana is approaching a critical ecological tipping point as water hyacinth spreads into 36 additional kebeles, prompting environmental experts to warn that Ethiopia’s largest freshwater lake could become unnavigable, suffer declining water levels and lose much of its unique biodiversity unless urgent action is taken.
The warning comes as the invasive aquatic weed continues to expand beyond its original infestation sites, raising concerns over the long-term ecological and economic future of Lake Tana, which supports fisheries, water transport, tourism and the livelihoods of millions of Ethiopians.
“If Lake Tana continues in this condition, boat transportation on the lake will no longer be possible, the lake’s water level will decline and its biodiversity will disappear,” said Chalachew Benalfew, a former weed control expert with the former Lake Tana and Other Water Bodies Conservation and Development Agency.
“Urgent action is needed to save the lake,” said Chalachew.
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