Lake Victoria

Toxic cyanobacteria (CyanoHABs) in Lake Victoria are rapidly increasing, threatening aquatic life and human health. A study in Kenya’s Winam Gulf identified Dolichospermum as dominant and linked Microcystis to the deadly microcystin toxin.

• About Lake Victoria: largest Lake in Africa, world’s second-largest freshwater lake by surface area.

o Shared by: Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya.

o Major basin: Winam/Nyanza Gulf (Kenya) – most affected by cyanobacterial blooms.

• Causes of CyanoHABs in Lake Victoria: Nutrient influx from fertilizers, sewage, industrial waste, and urbanization → Rising temperatures & climate change promote cyanobacteria growth → Excess algal growth depletes oxygen, kills fish, and disrupts ecosystems.

• Scientific Advancements: Genomic sequencing reveals 300+ uncharacterized genes in cyanobacteria → Targeted monitoring helps authorities issue public safety alerts → Nutrient reduction measures can help prevent cyanoHAB outbreaks.