International Waters learning Exchange & Resource Network

Pollution Control and Other Measures to Protect Biodiversity of Lake Tanganyika (LTBP)


Lake Tanganyika is one of the world?s great lakes and it has an important role in the economies of Burundi, Tanzania, Zaire, and Zambia. It possesses perhaps the highest biodiversity of any lake on Earth. The lake is very vulnerable to pollution because of its natural characteristics, and there are presently few efforts to conserve its biodiversity. The most immediate threats to the lake environment and biota are pollution from excess loads of sediment and nutrients caused by erosion in the watershed, industrial and urban pollution including boat discharges and intensive fishing with inappropriate methods. These problems and their effects are increasing, and others such as oil exploration and transportation on the lake cause concern. Immediate attention is required to assess and control pollution and protect biodiversity. This five-year project aims to improve understanding of the ecosystem function and effect of the stresses on the lake system; and to co-ordinate the efforts of the four countries to control pollution and to prevent the loss of the exceptional diversity of Lake Tanganyika. This is being done by establishing a regional framework for cooperation, including endeavours to harmonise legislation; investigating pollution including sources, effects and control; and investigating biodiversity and conservation measures leading to the setting up of protected areas as underwater parks. Activities closely involve government environmental ministries and agencies, and sectoral departments; a major objective is to strengthen national capabilities and community participation. The project is supported by international and local staff and contractors. NGOs are involved primarily through community education and conservation, and the private sector through promotion of tourism and the control of industrial pollution. Provision has been made to continue the work of the project after its life by a regionally cooperating organization


Other (not set)
Lake

http://www.ltbp.org

Tanganyika


TDA/SAP

Documents & Resources
General information
GEF ID 398
Project type Full-Size Project
Status closed (Project Closure)
Start Date 20 okt. 1993
End Date 01 okt. 1998
GEF characteristic:
Focal Area International Waters
GEF Allocation to project USD 10,000,000
Total Cost of the project: USD 10,000,000
Results
YES - See results data (398)
Partners
Burundi , Tanzania United Republic of , Zambia , Regional

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

Project contacts
Benoit Bihamiriza Regional Coordinator
Andrew Menz Deputy Regional Director
Abdoulaye Ndiaye Regional Coordinator