Britannica
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Which environmental problems have affected Lake Victoria?
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East African lakes
Mountains and lakes of East Africa.
Lake Victoria has faced significant environmental challenges in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. The primary issues affecting the lake include:
- Overfishing: Intense fishing pressure has threatened the lake's fish populations and ecological balance.1
- Pollution: The lake has suffered from ecological damage caused by various forms of pollution.1
- Invasive Species: The introduction of non-native species has disrupted the local ecosystem, most notably the Nile perch and the water hyacinth.1
These problems are particularly concerning given that the Lake Victoria region is one of the most densely populated areas in Africa, with millions of people relying on the lake for their livelihoods and as a vital source of protein.12