Addressing Plastic Waste in the Rusizi River and Lake Kivu
To combat the growing issue of plastic pollution, floating booms have been installed along the Rusizi River. These barriers are designed to contain and divert floating debris, helping to protect hydropower plants that supply electricity to Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The problem of plastic waste has become increasingly critical, as it not only disrupts power generation but also threatens aquatic life in Lake Kivu.
The Rusizi River serves as a vital waterway in East Africa, flowing from Lake Kivu through Rwanda and into Lake Tanganyika. It plays a crucial role in hydroelectric power generation, supporting several dams such as Rusizi I, II, and the upcoming Rusizi III project. These dams provide essential electricity to millions of people across the region.
Fidele Ndayisaba, Director-General of the International Electricity Society of the Great Lakes (SINELAC), highlighted the impact of plastic waste on power generation. He mentioned that 50 MWh were lost annually due to waste in the river. However, the installation of the floating boom has significantly reduced this issue. In 2024, the Rusizi II plant achieved its highest output since 1989, generating 240,432.60 MWh of electricity. This increase, combined with financial reforms, resulted in the plant recording $6.5 million in profits for the first time in its history.
The Rusizi III hydroelectric dam is set to be a major development, expected to cost $800 million. Construction is scheduled to begin in January 2026 and will be completed by 2030. Each of the three countries—Rwanda, DRC, and Burundi—will contribute equally, with each paying over $266 million and receiving approximately 68.6 megawatts of power.
Impact on Fish Populations and Local Communities
The presence of plastic waste in Lake Kivu has also affected fish populations, particularly sardines. Vincent Nzabandora, a local fisher, noted that sardine breeding is being hindered by plastic and other waste. The accumulation of waste along the shores where sardines lay their eggs disrupts their reproductive cycle. The production of sardines from Lake Kivu ranges between 300 to 500 tonnes per week, but the pollution poses a significant threat to this industry.
Solange Uwituze, Acting Director-General of the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB), emphasized the need for further research into the effects of micro-plastics in the lake. Although no confirmed studies have been conducted, visible plastic waste suggests potential harm to fish populations. She explained that areas with high plastic waste have fewer sardines, and those present often struggle to reproduce due to deteriorating conditions.
Plastic waste can lead to severe health issues for fish, including damage to their feeding grounds and the introduction of harmful chemicals into their bodies. Efforts to address these challenges include visiting the shores of lakes to monitor plastic waste and preparing reports accordingly. Educating communities about the dangers of plastic pollution is also essential, as well as promoting proper disposal methods and placing bins in strategic locations.
Community and Government Initiatives
Local authorities and community members are working together to tackle the issue. Prosper Mulindwa, Mayor of Rubavu District, mentioned the deployment of boats to monitor cleanliness and mobilizing residents to clean the shores of Lake Kivu. These efforts aim to ensure the lake remains free from waste and continues to support the fishing industry and local livelihoods.
In addition, there is a need to identify and monitor the pathways through which plastic waste enters water bodies. Regular inspections during rain runoff, wind, travel, and wildlife movement are crucial. By addressing these issues, the region can work towards sustainable waste management practices that protect both the environment and the communities that depend on it.