A Stakeholder’s Participation Process to Combat Water Hyacinth in Eastern Africa: The Case of Lake Tana

Abstract

Alien species are a challenge to developing countries in Africa. Ethiopia is the most affected. Lake Tana is diseased with weeds. The study aimed to analyze how stakeholders participated in the campaign and mobilized against water hyacinth. Professionals promoted, advocated and combated the challenges through different scenarios. A qualitative design was selected to obtain data through cross-sectional online web-based scientific documents. Data were analyzed using analytical discussions. The length of shoreline infested by the weed has increased alarmingly and is a major cause of the loss of biodiversity in the lake. However, the multifaceted efforts to save Tana are the greatest endeavor to protect it against the water hyacinth. The efforts are opportunities to undermine the enlargement of the weeds in and out of the lake. The finding indicates the identification of the water hyacinth problem was delayed. The findings show that most of the campaigns are not based on participatory planning. Participation was not well institutionalized in Ethiopia. The stakeholders’ role in environmental management was limited, and minimal attention was given. Inclusive planning and community-based management are indispensable to combating water hyacinth. The planning and participation of the campaign should be prolonged and repeatedly used to eradicate alien species.