Tlehema Gwandu Umbayda
Other projects
21 Jun 2023
Monitoring Pollution to Enhance Human Health and Conservation of Oreochromis Karomo Along the Malagarasi River, Tanzania
The CICHLID CARE project focuses on the conservation of endangered Orthochromis fish species in the Malagarasi River system by protecting and restoring shoreline wetlands, which are essential breeding and nursery habitats. These native fish face threats from habitat degradation caused by overharvesting of wetland vegetation, pollution, and the widespread use of illegal fishing gear such as mosquito nets. Such pressures are largely driven by local dependence on wetlands for livelihoods, making community involvement critical to successful conservation.
The project aims to identify and characterise key macrophyte-dominated wetlands and evaluate their role in supporting Orthochromis populations. Special attention will be given to understanding the structural components of these habitats that are essential for the species' survival. The study also seeks to compare fish abundance, richness, and diversity across protected, unprotected, and degraded wetland areas. In parallel, CICHLID CARE aims to raise awareness among the Waha community about the ecological importance of wetlands and the need for their sustainable management to ensure long-term fishery productivity.
A multidisciplinary approach will be employed, combining ecological field assessments with fish sampling and socio-economic engagement. Local communities will be actively involved in conservation planning through participatory workshops and educational campaigns. The project will also explore alternative, nature-based income sources such as beekeeping and ecotourism to reduce pressure on wetland resources.
By integrating conservation science with community needs, CICHLID CARE strives to restore critical wetland habitats, recover endangered Orthochromis populations, and promote sustainable livelihoods. The project supports Tanzania’s commitments to biodiversity conservation and sustainable development under the Ramsar Convention and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.