Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Chief Editor
Published on 2024-04-03 13:23:52
Lake Tanganyika, located in Nsumbu Northern Province, has recently experienced a record high water rise, with levels rising about 2.5 meters due to the high rainfall received. As of March 20, 2024, the water levels stood at 1748mm, compared to the usual average of 1250mm per year in the Northern Region. This unexpected rise in water levels has resulted in various challenges for offices, companies, power lines, communities along the lakeshore, and water gadgets that are gradually being submerged in the lake.
The Lake Tanganyika Development project has urged stakeholders to consider constructing smart climate infrastructure in response to climate change. Project Coordinator Dora Kamweneshe emphasized the importance of building resilient infrastructure that can withstand the effects of climate change. She noted that the rising water levels in Lake Tanganyika serve as a wake-up call for houses, offices, and companies along the lakeshore to invest in climate-smart infrastructure to prevent flooding.
Ms. Kamweneshe explained that in the past, many structures were built without considering the impacts of climate change. However, with the changing climate patterns, it is crucial for infrastructure to be designed in a way that addresses climatic conditions and ensures durability in the face of unforeseen events.
Lake Tanganyika is the longest freshwater lake in the world and the second deepest after Lake Baikal in Russia. It spans across Tanzania, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Zambia. Although Zambia only occupies 7% of the lake’s surface area, it stretches approximately 677km north to south and averages about 50km wide. The lake is renowned for its clear waters hosting over 350 different species of fish, making it a popular destination for aquarium fish exports and fishing enthusiasts.
The lake’s unique ecosystem is supported by the abundant plankton in its waters, providing essential protein for both local consumption and export markets. Additionally, the steep shoreline and stiff winds off the surrounding mountains help prevent the spread of diseases like bilharzia. Despite its immense size, Lake Tanganyika maintains a remarkably uniform temperature, with minimal variation between the surface and lower regions.
With over 350 species of fish, many of which are endemic, Lake Tanganyika is a biodiversity hotspot. The Lake Tanganyika Biodiversity Project works to conserve and manage the lake’s unique biological diversity, which includes species like the Nile perch, goliath tigerfish, kapenta, and various endemic cichlids. The lake’s evolutionary history and stability have led to the emergence of distinct species that are found only in Lake Tanganyika.
Overall, Lake Tanganyika is a biologically unique habitat that offers a glimpse into Earth’s evolutionary past. As a popular destination for sport fishing and eco-tourism, the lake continues to attract visitors and researchers interested in its rich biodiversity and conservation efforts. With the current challenges posed by rising water levels and climate change, it is essential for stakeholders to prioritize sustainable development and resilience in the face of environmental threats.
Read the original article on Lusaka Times
