According to research conducted by the center for national aquatic and fish research center under the Ethiopian Agricultural Research Institute has indicated that Ethiopia has the potential to cultivate about hundreds tons of fish every year from the artificial lakes that are created by the construction of dams in different parts of the country.
This number could double with the completion of the Grand Renaissance Dam (GERD) and the Gibe III dam in the near future. However, the research team has warned that unless the necessary preventive measures are taken, the existing man-made lakes are on the verge of danger. This in turn could diminish the amount of fish the country can get from these lakes every year.
Addis Ababa University, Department of Zoological Science and President of Ethiopian Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences Association Dr. Akwak Geremew told The Ethiopian Herald that, Ethiopia has a number of natural and manmade lakes. Protecting and building mega projects like Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam will help the country to utilize its potential.
Constructing dams provide a range of economic, environmental, and social benefits, including recreation, flood control, water supply, hydroelectric power, waste management, river navigation, and wildlife habitat. Those natural and manmade lakes provide prime recreational facilities throughout the country like boating, camping, picnic areas, and boat launch facilities are all supported by dams.
There are a number of mini manmade lakes in Ethiopia which are used for irrigation purpose. Dams are said to be an important source of water supply and high importance for various other reasons. They supply the water for the various means including domestic use, irrigation purposes and also for the industrial uses. Those mini lakes found in the country are ranging below 10 square kilometers. There are 29 manmade and 28 natural lakes ranging above 10 square kilometers found in different parts of the country, he said.
Among the natural lake found in the country Tana is the largest one. A short 45 minute flight from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar town will take to one of East Africa’s most prominent natural jewels, Lake Tana. Lake Tana is the largest lake in Ethiopia.
As to him there are so many endemic fishes in the lake. The place is open to the public and it is allowed to enter and visit, and the church. Lake Tana is also known for its selection of fish, of which more than 70 percent are endemic to the lake. Birds are also found aplenty around the lake. Recognizing its natural and cultural importance, UNESCO welcomed Lake Tana to its Biosphere Reserve list in 2015.
Another important water body is Lake Ziway which is found in the border of Oromia and SNNP. Ziway is a freshwater lake that is located on the border between the Oromia Region and the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ Region, about 100 kilometers south of the country’s capital, Addis Ababa.
Lake Ziway contains five islands dispersed on its freshwater surface, the largest being Tulu Gudo. Ziway is also known for its prolific birdlife, hippopotamus and others. It is perfect place to spend time in the area. If you’re spending time in the Rift Valley, and travel around the lake you can easily explore the wildlife under the expert guidance of local fishermen.
If you travel three hours by car to the south of the capital you will found Lake Langano, an idyllic lake perfect for a night or two of relaxation during a longer tour of the country.
Just to the east of Lake Langano is the Langano Nature Reserve. This forest is filled with a wide variety of birds and mammals, with some being endemic to Ethiopia.
Baboons, hippos, and warthogs are a common sight at this lakeside forest. Two neighboring eco lodges on the far side of the lake loan modern mountain bikes so you can explore the network of trails that wind through the lake’s nearby forest.
Langano is one of the principal swimming harbors for the locals. Tourists also come here from all over the world to either sail or waterski in the soft brown waters of Langano. Some swim, while others lie in the blazing sun on the sandy shore of the lake. There are also lodges which can give service for the visitors. In addition there are hotels which provide services.
One of the best lakes to fish in Ethiopia, Lake Awassa is located 270 km to the south of Addis Ababa, and is the smallest of the Rift Valley Lakes. With beautiful views, come beautiful hotels. There are many luxury resorts built around the lake.
Originally known as Lake Margherita, Abaya is a red lake located east of the Guge Mountains in the Southern Nation, Nationalities and Peoples’ Region of Ethiopia. Sediment suspended on the surface of the lake is responsible for the lake’s characteristic red hue.
Lake Abaya is famous amongst birdwatchers. A breadth of bird species are found here, with white pelicans, black heron, and bright pink flamingos among the most common sightings. Located just south of Lake Abaya is Lake Chamo. With a catchment area of about 18,000 sq km and a depth of only 10 meters, this lake is known for its large population of crocodiles.
Lake Afdera is a saline lake that is in the Danakil depression in the Afar triangle. Barely visited, this lake has a 160m depth and is fed by underground streams.
Salt has been extracted from Lake Afdera for centuries and during your visit there you might see dozens of camels carrying up to a hundred kilos of salt ambling around the Danakil depression.
The Ethiopian Herald August 1, 2020
BY HAILE DEMEKE
