Abstract:
Lake Kanyaboli and the surrounding Yala Swamp wetland have been
recognized as an important biodiversity hotspot. Recent population,
genetic and phylogenetic studies confirm the evolutionary importance
of Lake Kanyaboli in preserving the cichlid fish fauna of Lake
Victoria. The adjoining Yala Swamp harbours the endangered swamp
antelope Sitatunga (Tragecephalus spekii) and several papyrus
endemic birds. The lake and adjoining swamp play a critical role in
the livelihood of the local communities who heavily depend on the
wetland resources.
Current ongoing large scale land use and changes within the swamp
threaten the ecological integrity and functioning of this highly
dynamic wetland ecosystem. It is therefore imperative that proper
management and conservation measures are put in place to protect
Lake Kanyaboli and the associated Yala Swamp.
This paper presents a review of the biodiversity of Lake Kanyaboli
and the associated wetland and the threats this ecosystem has to face.
Polycultural finger-ponds aquaculture (see Figure 3), tourism and
papyrus based industries as well as an all-stakeholders-driven
management plan is suggested as a step towards achieving sustainable
management, utilization and conservation of the Lake Kanyaboli
ecosystem.
