Abstract:
This study investigated alternative use of water hyacinth as a management strategy.
Conceivably, Kisumu County has existing potential resources along the lake, which can catapult development to great heights. The rich natural resources, reliable climatic condition, accommodating resource systems and fishing opportunities; however, it faces a threat from water hyacinth. Since the offset of the waterweed in the lake waters of Kisumu, a situational analysis reveals more harm than good. Recent projects that unsuccessfully removed floating weed mats from Lake Victoria; however, the weed has remained persistent in the lake attracting more attention. In this light, the study sought to establish the effectiveness of biological, chemical and physical means of controlling water hyacinth. The research also investigated the diverse effects of water hyacinth to the residents. This will lead to the core aim of the research, which is to assess alternative use of water hyacinth as a management strategy. The research was guided by the following objectives to examine the effectiveness of conventional methods of hyacinth control, stakeholder’s involvement in the management of hyacinth and most importantly, the alternative uses of hyacinth as control mechanisms. From the research, it is evident that people are developing different mechanisms of survival to deal with the water hyacinth menace including weaving, rope making and animal feeding. Notably several companies are also coming up to manufacture fertilizers and other viable products
