- Hyacinth expansion, weed removal pace unmatched
ADDIS ABABA – The Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) has disclosed the discovery of three aquatic invasive species, in addition to water hyacinth, in Lakes Logo, Ardibo, and Tana.
In an exclusive interview with The Ethiopian Herald, MoA’s Eco-Hydrology and Water Desk Project Coordinator Wendosen Abeje stated that a study conducted in collaboration with universities identified the presence of three aquatic invasive species in the aforementioned lakes.
He noted that the presence of these invasive species is expected to impact the water bodies, aquatic ecosystems, and local livelihoods.
“These species could hinder the growth of macro flora, reduce fish production, and disrupt other activities,” he said, emphasizing the urgent need for their removal.
Wendosen also reported that water hyacinth has been spreading across more than ten water bodies in the country.
“The scale of the hyacinth expansion far exceeds the pace of control measures, particularly weed removal efforts,” he said, adding that it has become a major threat to the country’s aquatic ecosystems by disrupting ecological balance.
He further stressed that controlling the spread of these invasive weeds, especially hyacinth, requires coordinated efforts from all stakeholders. He highlighted the importance of preserving water ecology starting from upstream basins, removing invasive weeds, and replacing them with native species through restoration, rehabilitation, recycling methods, and other interventions.
The committee organized for this purpose holds a special responsibility in facilitating efforts to curb the spread of invasive weeds. So far, the country has employed both manual and technology-assisted methods to remove water hyacinth, he said.
As part of its effort to control and prevent the spread of water hyacinth and other invasive species, the country has also developed about ten strategic plans and recycling mechanisms to derive economic value from the weeds, he noted.
BY TSEGAYE TILAHUN
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 7 JUNE 2025
