Partner states of the East African Community (EAC) have reaffirmed their commitment to protecting Lake Victoria,Africa’s second largest freshwater lake from the mounting threats of pollution and climate change.
The renewed pledge was made during the 23rd Ordinary Sectoral Council of Ministers on the Lake Victoria Basin, held from 12th–16th May 2025 in Kisumu, Republic of Kenya.
The high-level meeting brought together ministers responsible for EAC Affairs, Water, Environment, and Maritime Transport from all eight EAC partner states namely the Republic of Kenya, Republic of Uganda, Republic of Rwanda and the United Republic of Tanzania.
Others were from the Republic of South Sudan, the Federal Republic of Somalia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Recognizing the escalating environmental pressures on Lake Victoria, the ministers emphasized the urgency of safeguarding its ecological integrity and economic value. They committed to mobilizing resources and enhancing regional collaboration to protect the basin.
Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for East African Community, Arid and Semi-Arid Lands and Regional Development, Hon. Beatrice Askul who chairs the Council of Ministers called for timely financial contributions from partner states. She noted that under funding had significantly hindered the Lake Victoria Basin Commission (LVBC) from executing vital conservation projects.
“Our goal is to reduce pollution that continues to degrade water quality and endanger both aquatic life and human health. Each member state must take responsibility to ensure waste is kept out of the lake and its tributaries,” said Askul. She also stressed the importance of sustained commitment to avoid stagnation in ongoing efforts.
To reinforce conservation measures, the Council approved the development of regional policies and regulations aimed at guiding the protection of Lake Victoria and its ecosystems.
“These frameworks will be crucial in conserving biodiversity and sustaining the livelihoods of millions who depend on the lake,” Askul added.
Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Water, Hon. Eric Muuga, echoed the need for unified action, underscoring the lake’s vital role in supporting the region’s blue economy through fishing, transport, and trade.
Tanzania’s EAC Minister, Hon. Denis Lazaro Londo, described Lake Victoria as a symbol of regional unity and highlighted the importance of trans boundary cooperation in managing shared resources.
Uganda’s Environment Minister, Hon. Beatrice Anywar Atim, emphasized the urgency of developing strong climate change mitigation strategies. She pledged Uganda’s increased funding for conservation and called on fellow member states to do the same.
The ministers concluded the meeting with a joint call for the accelerated implementation of agreed-upon recommendations, emphasizing that only collective and sustained action can preserve Lake Victoria for future generations.
LVBC Executive Secretary Dr. Masinde Bwire applauded development partners for supporting ongoing conservation efforts. He noted that several projects are currently underway, with more in the pipeline to further strengthen the basin’s protection.