REPORT OF THE LAKE TANGANYIKA BIODIVERSITY INSTITUTION AND
RESOURCES ASSESSMENT MISSION TO TANZANIA, ZAÏRE AND ZAMBIA - 8
AUGUST TO 3 SEPTEMBER 1996
Authorship in alphabetical order:
Allison, E. H., Bailey-Watts, A. E., Duck, R. W., Foxall, C., Patterson, G. and Petit, P.
i
TABLE OF ACRONYMS
5
1. GENERAL INTRODUCTION
6
1.1 Scope of Report
6
1.2 Summary of mission ToR (Appendix I contains full text).
6
1.3 General approaches adopted by the mission
7
2. INSTITUTIONAL RESOURCE ASSESSMENTS AND REPORTS ON ASSOCIATED VISITS
TO POTENTIAL STUDY SITES
12
2.1 Burundi
12
2.2 Tanzania
17
2.3 Zaire
48
2.4 Zambia
56
3. SPECIAL STUDIES: GENERAL STRATEGIES, LOGISTICS, STUDY SITES AND WORK
PLANS
77
3.1 Special Study on 'Pollution and its effects on biodiversity'
78
3.2 Special Study on 'Sediment discharge and its effects on biodiversity'
80
3.3 Special Study on 'Biodiversity'
80
4. LINKS TO ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION ISSUES
81
4.1 Burundi
81
4.2 Tanzania
81
4.3 Zaire
85
4.4 Zambia
85
5. CONSIDERATIONS OF GENERAL RELEVANCE TO THE LAKE TANGANYIKA
BIODIVERSITY SPECIAL STUDIES
92
5.1 The RV 'Echo'
92
5.2 Project Liaison
94
5.3 Public Perception/'Image'
96
5.4 Health and Safety
97
6. OVERALL RECOMMENDATIONS
98
6.1 Burundi
98
6.2 Tanzania
98
6.3 Zaire
103
6.4 Zambia
104
6.5 Existing data
106
APPENDICES
108
APPENDIX I: TERMS OF REFERENCE OF VISIT
109
APPENDIX II: PROFORMA/'AIDE-MEMOIRE' USED FOR RECORDING INFORMATION
GAINED DURING VISITS TO INSTITUTIONS AND THE ASSESSMENT OF RESOURCES. 112
APPENDIX III : ENGLISH-FRENCH SUMMARY OF BASELINE REVIEW ON POLLUTION IN
INTERNATIONAL WATERS AND ITS EFFECTS ON BIODIVERSITY IN LAKE
TANGANYIKA
116
APPENDIX IV : ENGLISH-FRENCH SUMMARY OF BASELINE REVIEW ON SEDIMENT
POLLUTION AND ITS IMPACTS ON BIODIVERSITY IN LAKE TANGANYIKA
117
APPENDIX V: LTR STAFF
118
APPENDIX VI: REPORTS OBTAINED
119
SUMMARY
Over a period of approximately 6 weeks (August to September) in 1996, this 6-man mission
assessed the institutional strengthening and resources needed for various aspects of the three
main `ecological' Special Studies of the Lake Tanganyika Biodiversity Project (LTBP):
Pollution and its effects on biodiversity; Sediment Pollution and its impacts; and broader
aspects of biodiversity per se. The current status was assessed by way of man-power, field
and laboratory equipment; laboratory space and layout; facilities for analysing and reporting on
the data gathered; and general back-up such as libraries.
Some 40 centres were visited, including large Ministries, non-University research bodies,
University Departments and much smaller, though significant NGOs involved in wildlife
conservation, for example. A number of especially exciting links were made in relation to the
broad area of Environmental Education, with schools, wildlife Societies, national parks and
museums.
The teams representing the three Special Studies worked in a very closely integrated way.
Indeed, without the division of labour cutting across the main focuses of pollution,
sedimentation and related biodiversity issues, the mission could not have visited people based
as far north as Uvira in the Zairian sector of the lake catchment, and Mpulungu and Lusaka
(Zambia) in the south. This approach proved eminently successful too, in providing the
opportunity to see, at close range (and even take samples in some cases) a wide selection of
potential sampling sites. These ranged from pelagic areas to shallow and littoral situations and
habitats, with mud, through silt, sand, pebble, cobble and boulder substrates; some of these
sites appear very suitable for assessing pollution and sediment pollution status, and the
associated diversity in the biological communities. This is likely to prove particularly so,
during the first year of practical work - which the teams suggest strongly is viewed primarily
for training, and establishing one major laboratory in each country (i.e. Bujumbura, Kigoma,
Mpulungu and Uvira/Kalemie). In addition to the main institutions, some 30 other NGOs
would be invited to collaborate (with LTBP resources and funding) on specific areas of
research, training and environmental education.
The type and amount of resources needed, vary with institution - and of course, with the area
of work in which they will be involved. Certainly for the 4 main laboratory complexes, and
probably in a number of the other institutions involved in field sampling and materials analysis,
a `basic' range of equipment for carrying out the following tasks should be introduced into the
region:
·
travelling to sampling sites; land rover/equivalent; inflatable craft plus outboard engines
- and life-jackets and gear for safe anchoring; storage of fuel; maps.
·
environmental recording: waterproof cameras, GPS; pH, temperature, conductivity and
dissolved oxygen probes.
·
sampling: water bottles, tubes, grabs, nets, ropes/cables; containers; fixatives, cool
boxes.
·
laboratory analyses: traditional chemical determinations: glassware and reagents (mainly
in preference to `Hach' type instruments except for remote sites); filtration kits and
filters. The examination of biological materials: centrifuges, microscopes; and a range
of personal computers with software for data entry, analysis, and the graphing and
reporting of the results.
The mission was very successful in firstly identifying the most likely organisations to fund and
bring onto the LTBP. Secondly, it was able to increase considerably (see below) the region's
awareness of the project by circulating copies of the ToR of the mission, and the summaries of
elevation of the status of the project is required and this would depend on the SLO being out in
the region far more than hitherto, contacting and establishing a rapport with all persons
potentially involved/interested in the project. His lack of supervision over the refurbishment of
the `RV Echo', did not bode well for the future role of the SLO in his primary responsibility of
equipment maintenance and care.
We are grateful to all of the people we met in Tanzania, Zaire and Zambia. Ministry principals,
institute directors, researchers, technicians, boatmen and NGO personnel, all gave us much of
their valuable time. During many hours of discussions, we learnt a lot. As a consequence we
are in a much better position than hitherto, to assign the different groups to the various, exciting
areas of monitoring, research, training and environmental education under the LTBP. We
thank too, the large number of people who showed as potential field study sites in addition to
their laboratories and offices. The mission has been made much more aware of the incredible
challenge that the LTBP faces; however, it has also been impressed by the considerable human
resource that, with our help, can surely advance knowledge on, and establish a sustainable
programme for, the lake.
Nevertheless, the team is unanimous in its contention that the project will be unable to achieve
its goals unless at least one highly qualified full-time scientist is placed permanently in each of
the four lake countries. This would not only ensure that progress on any aspects is recorded
and monitored; it would demonstrate the keenness of the funding bodies to be involved at the
`sharp end' - and not just `swanning in' for short periods. It would also further strengthen the
ties that this mission has started to establish between Africans and the UK contractors and
consultants.
TABLE OF ACRONYMS
CRH
Centre Recherche d'Hydrobiologique (Zaire)
CRRHA
Centre Regional de Recherches en Hydrobiologie
Appliquee (Burundi)
ECZ
Environmental Council for Zambia (Zambia)
FAO
Food and Agriculture Organisation (UN)
FINNIDA
Finnish Development Agency (Finland)
GEF
Global Environment Facility
GIS
Geographical Information System
IFE
Institute of Freshwater Ecology (UK)
IGEBU
IGEBU - l'Institut Geographique du Burundi
(Bujumbura)
INECN
Institute for the Environment and Conservation of
Nature (Burundi)
IRC
International Rescue Committee
LTBP
Lake Tanganyika Biodiversity Project
LTR
Lake Tanganyika Research Project
MRAG
Marine Resources Assessment Group
NC
National Co-ordinator
NEMC
National Environment Management Council
(Tanzania)
NGO
Non-Governmental Organisation
NRI
Natural Resources Institute (UK)
ODEB
Organisation pour la Defense del' environment
Burundi
PC
Project Coordinator
PCU
Project Coordination Unit
SENADEP
Service Nationale du Promotion et de la
Development de la Peche
SLO
Scientific Liaison Officer
TACARE
Lake Tanganyika Catchment Reforestation and
Education Project
TAFIRI
Tanzanian Fisheries Research Institute
TANAPA
Tanzanian National Parks Authority
UoD
University of Dundee (UK)
UEA
University of East Anglia (UK)
UK
United Kingdom
UN
United Nations
UNZA
University of Zambia (Lusaka)
1. GENERAL INTRODUCTION
This report concerns the findings of a one-month mission aimed at assessing all resources in
institutions in the Lake Tanganyika region that could potentially contribute to the Lake
Tanganyika Biodiversity Project (LTBP) - and especially aspects concerned with the main
'ecological' Special Studies i.e. 'Pollution in International Waters and its Effects on
Biodiversity', 'Sediment Discharge and Its Consequences on Biodiversity', and 'Biodiversity'
per se. 'Resources' thus includes people, buildings and equipment in Africa; and the services
provided by the Project Co-ordination Unit (PCU). Attention is also paid to the situation
obtaining with respect to resource needs in the form of technical training. While much of this
mission focused on the Special Studies which will obtain results crucial to the successful
management of the conservation areas and the protection of biodiversity, attention was also
paid to environmental education.
The mission consisted primarily of the 6 authors, but with occasional assistance from the
project PCU and considerable help from numerous resident personnel in the total of some 40
organisations visited. Owing to the thoroughly good support of many individuals in the lake
countries, the group was also able to see many different areas of the lake and assess their
suitability as future study sites.
1.1 Scope of Report
After outlining the Terms of Reference and preparatory arrangements for the mission, the
document reports firstly on the findings of the assessments of resources in some 40
institutions including regional water authorities, research institutes, university departments
and NGOs - see next Table. It also comments on the approximately 12 shoreline areas that
were visited more or less in conjunction with the tours of laboratories, and assessed for their
potential suitability as future study sites in terms of ease of access, whether impacted or
'pristine', the types of habitat represented (aspect, and whether sandy, rocky, muddy
substrates, or open water). The report then turns its attention to five issues of more or less
general relevance to the Lake Tanganyika Biodiversity Project (LTBP), i.e. the main research
vessels, project liaison, the project 'image', health and safety, and strategies and logistics of
the Special Studies. The body of the report makes numerous recommendations bearing on
various aspects of the LTBP as a whole, and the strategies for the 'limnological' Special
Studies in particular; these recommendations are, however, also listed in a separate section of
this report. Each individual concerned with the mission has made detailed notes on their own
experiences. Though this report has drawn heavily on these notes they should be consulted if
further detail is required.
1.2 Summary of mission ToR (Appendix I contains full text).
The mission made a practical assessment (following the findings of the Baseline Reviews) and
progressed with the drawing up of plans for detailed studies - to be initiated in Stage II, and
conducted with technical support, supervision and co-ordination - by local institutions
viewed as suitable by the NRI/IFE/UEA/UoD/MRAG project team.
were identified. The Inception Report (copies of which were available during the mission)
summarised the priorities of the Studies which form the basis of this mission i.e. `Pollution
of International Waters - and its Effects on Biodiversity', `Sediment Discharge and Its
Consequences on Biodiversity', and `Biodiversity' per se. The Inception Workshop endorsed
proposals to assess pollution status and biodiversity at selected sites in each country. It also
identified the need to incorporate `pristine' unimpacted/unpolluted sites in the surveys, and
take account of the situations prevailing in open and in-shore waters, including the water
column, near-bottom waters and sediments and other substrates.
All members of the mission visited Tanzania, while all but GP and CF saw Zaire, and all but
TBW and RWD visited Zambia. Unfortunately, the security situation in Burundi precluded
any involvement there. The mission did the following:
investigated the capacity of each institution, and the human, infra-structural and
equipment resources bearing on the requirements of the LTBP, and identified a number of
institutions and people that it will recommend for involvement in the project.
assessed the nature and scale of logistic problems - especially those related to sampling
and laboratory analysis - in each country's lake sector.
proposed arrangements for executing all stages of the work, i.e. planning of field and
laboratory activities, through data analysis to reporting of the results.
identified requirements for technical assistance, training and supervision from project
external specialists for the Studies.
for the Project Co-ordinator, reviewed the mission's interim findings back in Dar es
Salaam.
The group will provide (via the PCU in Dar es Salaam) the National Co-ordinators and NRI
with a detailed report i.e. the present document, on the findings and recommendations of the
mission.
The mission did not, however, hold discussions with all National Co-ordinators as planned,
nor as a consequence, properly develop country strategies for the Studies. Partly as a result
of not going to Burundi, the mission was also unable to hire the `Tanganyika Explorer' as
originally hoped.
1.3 General approaches adopted by the mission
The issues related to all three Special Studies are incorporated into the present, single
document. This approach reflects the integrated manner in which we carried out the mission,
and in which we recommend the studies eventually be carried out. Thus, from early planning
through to the final execution of institutional resource assessments and site visits, the
'Sedimentation' team consisting of RWD and GP, worked closely with the 'Pollution' team of
TBW and CF, and the 'Biodiversity' team of EHA and PP. An early strategy meeting in Dar
`split' was necessary in order to visit all of the institutions and sites intended (next Table)
and ensure as far as possible that each 'visiting group' was capable of attending to all issues of
relevance, i.e. to pollution, sediment pollution and biodiversity. This was achieved by the
whole team working together in Tanzania, but just TBW and RWD working together in Zaire,
and CF and GP teaming up for Zambia. All 6 were in Africa from 9.8.96 to 3.9.96, while
EHA and PP arrived 7.8.96, and they stayed until 10 and 20.9.96 respectively.
Table: Organisations/institutions and main people visited during the Lake Tanganyika resource assessment mission - 8 August to 3 September 1996.
Institutions assessed and/or sites visited
13.8 Kigoma: Regional Water Department (Tanzania): Mr Michael Baragwiha (Regional Water Engineer), Mr C E L Rubabwa (Geologist) and
Mr Theodore Mpyalimi (Hydrologist In Charge).
13.8 Kigoma: TAFIRI (Tanzania): Mr Chitamwebwe (Station Director), Mr Katonda (Deputy Director) and Mr U Kisisiwe (Field operative and
Boatman).
13.8: LTR (FAO FINNIDA) (Tanzania): Mr P Mannini (Head of Station and fisheries biologist), Mr A Kalangali (Zooplankton researcher), Mr
Muhoza (Zooplankton technician), Dr J Craig (Project Statistician), Ms Els Bosma (Zooplankton, nekton and fish), Mr P Verburg (Hydrologist and
fisheries biologist).
14.8: Kigoma High School (Tanzania): Mrs Fatima Mashaka (Deputy Head Mistress, Mr Kunga (Head, Department of Biology).
15-16.8: Uvira: Centre de la Recherche Hydrobiologique, and Kalimabenge and Mulongwe Rivers (Zaïre): Mr S Kimbadi (Chemist), Mr M
Mbemba (nutritionist), Mr K Tshibangu (Chemist/Invertebrate zoologist), Mr M Risasi (Taxonomist - Cichlidae), Mr M Kamalebo (algologist -
mainly epilithon). Phytoplankton net-tow sample collected in approach to Uvira Bay.
15.8: Kipili (Tanzania): small natural bay - with defunct but potentially restorable Fisheries Department buildings.
16.8 and 20.8: Mbala at Mpulungu: Department of Fisheries (Zambia): Mr Mwape, Mr D Kabakwe (Senior Fisheries Development Officer)
16.8 and 20.8: Mpulungu: LTR (FAO FINNIDA) (Zambia): Mr V Landenberg and Ms P Pfaffer (Researchers).
17.8: Mbala, Mpulungu: Motomoto Museum (Zambia): Mr E Nkole Sosala (Keeper of Pre-History Department).
18-19.8: Sumbu: Lufubu River, Sumbu National Park, and Department of Fisheries (Zambia): Mr Mwape (as above), Mr T Miti (Head
Wildlife Service, Sumbu).
20.8 Malagarasi Delta (offshore zone) (Tanzania): seine-net fishermen and boys. Samples collected: submerged and emergent macropytes, and
bottom muds/silts/sands.
21.8 Mahale: Mountains National Park (Tanzania): Mr J Wakibara (Park Ecologist), Mr A H Seki (Senior Park Warden)., Mr W Daniel (Park
Warden, Law Enforcement) and Mr F I Malisa (Park Warden, Tourism and Community Conservation Service). Phytoplankton net-tow samples
collected at five points during return journey to Kigoma.
21.8: Mpulungu: Water Engineer's Department (Zambia): Mr B J Kasonde (District Water Engineer).
22.8: Kasama: Provincial Water Department (Zambia): Mr S C Ngambi (Water Engineer).
22.8: Kasama: Northern Province Development Programme (NPDP) Irish Aid (Zambia): Mr C Chizango (Deputy Director).
22-23.8: Lusaka : UNDP (Zambia): Dr Chipungu (Sustainable Development Director).
22-23.8: Lusaka (Zambia): Environmental Council of Zambia: Mr J S Phiri (LT Project National Co-ordinator).
24.8: Kigoma (Tanzania): Field visit and sampling of epilithon, epipsammon and epiphyton in two local ('Jacobson's') bays.
26.8: Lusaka (Zambia): Fisheries Department: Mr G Mudende (Director at Chilanga).
26.8: Lusaka (Zambia): Department of National Parks and Wildlife, Ministry of Tourism: All staff at seminar in Kafue.
26.8: Lusaka, National Council for Scientific Research (Zambia): Mr C Mwambe (Acting Secretary General) and Dr M Nomai (NCSR, Radio-
isotope Unit).
27.8: Kigoma, Tanzania: visit from Dattomax Sellanyika (Warden, Gombe National Park).
27.8: Lusaka, University of Zambia: Professor D D Theo (Dean, School of Natural Sciences), Dr S M Mgwira (Head, Department of Physics),
Professor J Cernak (Department of Physics), Professor P C R Jain (Manager, Environmental Resource Centre in the Physics Department), Dr F
Kamona (Head, Department of Geology, School of Mines). Mr H. Sichingabula (Department of Geography)
28.8: Lusaka, University of Zambia: Dr Jere (Dean, School of Mines) and Dr S Simukanga (Head, Department of Metallurgy and Mineral
Processing).
28.8: Lusaka, Embassy of Ireland: Bernadette Crawford (Senior Projects Office, Irish Aid Development Programme).
28.8: Kigoma, TAFIRI/LTR premises (Tanzania): Ms Els Bosma (Zooplankton, nekton and fish).
29.8: Lusaka, National Council for Scientific Research (Zambia): Dr M. Nomai (Head, Radio isotope Research Unit), Ms M. Sibbuki
(Research and Development Co-ordinator), Ms C.M. Msomi (Acting Head, Water Section)
29.8: Lusaka, Food Drug and Control Laboratory, University Teaching Hospital (Ministry of Health), Zambia: Ms M. Sakala (Acting
Head of Laboratory).
29.8: Lusak Geological Survey Department (Zambia): Mr. F. Njamu (Geologist, Prescribed Minerals and Materials Commission)
29.8: Dar es Salaam, TAFIRI: Prof. Bwathondi (Director of Fisheries)
29.8: Dar es Salaam: University, Department of Zoology (Dr Kasigwa)
30.8: Lusaka, National Council for Scientific Research (Zambia): Mr Kaposhe (Head, Livestock and Pest Centre at Chilanga).
30.8: Lusaka, Zambia Environmental Education Programme: Mr J Lupere (Materials Development Officer).
30.8: Lusaka, Geological Survey Department (Zambia): Mr F Njamu
1.9: Dar es Salaam, British High Commmission (Tanzania): Dr Jane Goodall (Director, Gombe National Park and Research Institute).
2.9 Dar es Salaam: University, Geology Department (Tanzania): Dr Kapilima (Stratigrapher and palaeologist) and Dr H H Nkotagu (Acting
HOD).
2.9 Dar es Salaam: Ministry of Water - Subdivision of Water Resources' (Tanzania): Mr. Msuya (Meraji. O.Y.) Acting Director of Water
Resources) and Mr. Mihayo (Hydrologist).
2.9 Dar es Salaam: University, Civil Engineering Department (Tanzania): Dr Mkhandi (Hydrologist - Co-ordinatorr for FRIEND)
3.9 Dar es Salaam: University, Faculty of Science (Tanzania): Professor M H N Nkunya (Associate Dean, Academic).
3.9 Dar es Salaam: University, Department of Chemistry (Tanzania): Professor Mulozoki (Acting Head of Department).
3.9 Dar es Salaam: University, Department of Zoology (Tanzania): Mr Botterweg (Biodiversity database inc. GIS).
3.9 Dar es Salaam: University, Department of Botany (Tanzania): Dr A K Kivaisi (Senior Lecturer in Applied Microbiology).
3.9 Dar es Salaam: Wildlife Conservation Society of Tanzania: Mrs Alice S Bhukali (WCST Co-ordinator).
3.9: Dar es Salaam: Lake Victoria Environmental Management Plan (Tanzania): Mr Mbwana (LVEMP Co-ordinator).
5.9 Arusha: Tropical Pesticide Research Institute (Tanzania): Mr C J Muangirwa (Chief Research Officer); Mr J Ak'habuhaya (Head, Physical
and Chemical Division).
2. INSTITUTIONAL RESOURCE ASSESSMENTS AND REPORTS ON
ASSOCIATED VISITS TO POTENTIAL STUDY SITES
A 'questionnaire'/'aide memoire (Appendix II) was prepared for the institutional visits,
bearing in mind that the amount of time spent at each site, was often limited, and we had to
gather as much information as possible on all issues relevant to the Special Studies. Indeed,
the time spent at e.g. the Centre de la Recherche Hydrobiologique d'Uvira (Zaire) and the
Mahale Mountains National Park (Tanzania) was generally less than that spent travelling to
and from these places.
Preliminary discussions amongst the group suggested that a more or less standard lay-out
could be adopted for reporting on the resources in each institution. However, it was soon
realised that this was not appropriate because of the large disparity in the size and type of
organisation (e.g. a regional fishery station compared with a research establishment or
university department). As a reflection of this, the reports below vary considerable in
character - and especially where resources of either people, buildings or equipment are
presently virtually `nil' in the context of achieving the aims of these studies. In general,
however, for each country some preliminary comments are made on geography and
topography, on the range and number of institutions and places visited, and on special/unique
features with an important bearing on the studies. The institutional assessments are reported
in the following order: (i) Ministry departments, (ii) Research institutes, (iii) University
departments, (iv) NGOs and (v) `others' including UNDP and the Lake Victoria
Environmental Management Programme. Prior to our travels, we knew that some of the
institutions were likely to be of more relevance in terms of their potential as field study sites
than as bases for laboratories per se; as such, these organisations are reported on under a
separate section headed `Potential study sites visited'.
The remarks on each institution (within a country) outline first the reasons for our visit, the
mandate/role of the organisation, and its approximate size (staffing). Second, we give in as
much detail as possible, our findings on buildings, equipment, scientific expertise, and
documentation. Other considerations of note are identified next, and the sections each
conclude with our overall impressions of the institution and its potential involvement in the
LTBP. As already indicated, the Section on Burundi (2.2 below) is comparatively short -
summarising information gained from first, mobilisation visits by Keith Banister (KB), Ian
Downey (ID), Tim Bostock (TB) and Andy Menz (AM), and second, the visit by TBW as
part of his preparation of the Pollution Baseline Review. It is stressed therefore that the
observations on staff, buildings and facilities as outlined below, may not represent the current
situation.1
2.1 Burundi
Burundi borders much of the northern end of the lake. As one of the most densely populated
and industrialised areas in the region, it is of major interest to the project by way of
opportunities for assessing the levels of a wide range of pollutants and the patterns of
biodiversity associated with different pollution sources. This country sector also
encompasses much of the Rusizi River delta and thus, in-lake areas potentially affected by
sediment influx, as well as more traditional pollution from, e.g. cotton-growing, salt-mining
and sugar refining areas.
Burundi owns the smallest area of land of the four main countries around the lake, i.e. 11,950
km2 at 5.3% of the total catchment area of 266,890 km2. This is, however, approximately
three times the area of catchment lying within Rwanda. Burundi also ranks 4th on the basis
of the area of Lake Tanganyika that it owns 1,838 km2, although it is ranked 5th in terms of
length of shoreline abutting the lake, i.e. 158 km. Contrastingly the country `houses' the
second largest feeder water of the lake - that of the `petit' Rusizi and the `grande' Rusizi
which together drain a catchment of 15,430 km2 (which is considerably larger than the 11,950
km2 of Burundian land within the Lake Tanganyika catchment).
Burundi, and Bujumbura in particular, represents an especially important `resource' for the
LTBP, in three main respects. Firstly, it is the base for the FAO, FINNIDA's main research
vessel (The `Tanganyika Explorer'). Secondly, it has the LTR (FAO, FINNIDA) station
which houses what is undoubtedly the most extensive collection of unpublished reports and
scientific papers and books on work in the region, and has a small, but well-managed and
equipped analytical laboratory. Thirdly, on the same `campus' as LTR, are the offices and
laboratories formerly governed by the CRRHA where the majority of the studies to date have
been carried out on pollution and its effects on lake fauna (especially benthic invertebrates).
Bujumbura is also `special' in the context of the LTBP - and the main Scientific Special
Studies in particular - in having a University that has many interests in ecological work.
Set against all of these potentially crucial resources/opportunities presented by this country,
are major constraints occasioned primarily by inter-tribal wars. As a reflection of this, the
present mission was unable to visit Burundi. TBW stayed in Bujumbura in November 1995
to write (at the LTR's Documentation Centre) the Baseline Review on `Pollution in
International Waters and its Effects on Biodiversity'. However, curfews and other situations
prohibited visits to potential study areas out of Bujumbura, and there was no opportunity at
that time to visit the university.
Numerous studies on the effects of various types of pollution on the biodiversity of the
whole suite of organisms in LT could be conducted outside Burundi. Nevertheless, this
would firstly go completely against the regional `spirit' of the project. Such an alternative
would also mean ignoring, and thus failing to advance knowledge on the effects of pollutants
that may prove to be unique to this northern sector of the lake. Such a strategy would also
marginalise the many Burundi-based resources crucial to the project as a whole; above all, it
could miss the opportunity of capitalising on the corpus of intellectual, and thoroughly
enthusiastic (and in many cases experienced) scientists, technicians and administrators in this
country.
There are two centres (both in Bujumbura) that we consider very worthy of involvement in
the LTBP project. One is the `research compound' housing both the Lake Tanganyika
Research FAO FINNIDA project (LTR), and the Belgium-funded Centre Regionale de
Recherche Hydrobiologie Appliqué (CRRHA), while the other is the University. It is not
known to what extent the present project can appoint staff that are presumably coming to, or
plain that a considerable body of well-qualified secretarial, technical and research workers is
potentially available. Along with the existing buildings which are in good shape and reflect
well the firm, but fair management and supervision maintained by the previous
directors/project coordinators.
2.1.1 Ministry of Environment: Institute for the Environment and Conservation of
Nature (INECN)
Dr Gaspard Bikwemu is the Director General of INECN which will be the lead organisation
for the LTBP in Burundi. He was nominated for the position of National Coordinator by the
Minister. He is a very amiable, apparently influential and enthusiastic individual, keen on
building up his organisation. He clearly sees the LTBP as an important step in that direction.
Quite early on, he drew up a list of delegates for the National Working Group and asked the
Minister to agree his choice. Although this was a unilateral action with no reference having
been made to the PCU, it demonstrates initiative and enthusiasm for the project.
The head office of INECN is in Gitega but the organisation also owns a building in Bujumbura
near the University campus. This is quite spacious, but largely unoccupied, and is on two
storeys. It has offices (with space available for the LTBP if required) and a small laboratory
is under construction (Italian consultants) for 'pollution studies' - although Dr Bikwemu was
unable to give details of the type of analyses that would be carried out, but they were related
to industrial pollution. No technical staff are currently attached to INECN.
2.1.2 Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock: Department of Water, Fisheries and
Aquaculture
Mr Roger Kanyaru is Director of this department. He is also keen to collaborate with the
LTBP and provide office space if required. This could be very useful and would be the most
conveniently located base for activities in Burundi. Nevertheless, in order not to offend
INECN, it would be politic not to set up anything other than a temporary office here, unless
there were overriding logistical reasons for doing so.
2.1.3 FAO/FINNIDA Lake Tanganyika Research Project
From the outset of the UK's LTBP Dr (now Professor) George Hanek (LTR's project Co-
ordinator) has been extremely helpful generally, and in particular regarding logistics of visits
made by the UK and American personnel. As examples, he has provided project visitors to
Burundi with transport to most of our meetings and arranged e.g. for visa and transport to
Uvira from Bujumbura. Promises of full co-operation have always been honoured. LTBP has
held numerous discussions on a broad range of administrative and operational matters with Dr
Hanek, such that he is well-versed in the aims and business of our projects. He has also
provided information and advice over such potentially 'delicate' issues as salary, 'bonus' and
per diem rates for nationals in the region. In addition, during TBW's visit to Bujumbura in
November 1995, Professor Hanek allowed him free access to reports and publications in the
LTR's Documentation Centre; without such an opportunity to use the library - in which a
considerable body of the literature has been generated by the LTR studies - it would have
been virtually impossible to produce the Baseline Review on 'Pollution and its effects on
biodiversity'. Professor Hanek also invited TBW, KB and ID as representatives of the GEF
project to attend the Fourth Joint Meeting of the LTR's coordination and international
scientific committees (14-16 November): in addition to contributing to discussions on general
collaboration and vessel use between the LTR and the LTBP, TBW and KB presented short
talks on respectively, the Pollution Special Study, and the LTBP as a whole.
A number of curriculum vitae of the staff at LTR were collected by TBW with the view to
appointing the people to the project as soon as possible.
Telephone, Facsimile and E-mail are all available at the LTR station.
2.1.4 Centre Regionale de Recherche en Hydrobiologie et Appliqué.
Drs Alain Vandelannoote (Limnologist and Station Manager) and Luc de Vos (Senior Scientist
with a special interest in fish taxonomy) headed this Belgium-funded research facility. Both
have worked in Zaire, Rwanda and Burundi feeder streams as well as Lake Tanganyika itself.
They had promised full co-operation with, and support for, the LTBP and this was amply
borne out on numerous occasions during TBW's visit with loans of literature on pollution
studies which also proved pertinent to the Baseline Review referred to above.
Staff are involved in both chemical and biological studies on the lake and some of its feeder
waters; attention includes that paid to invertebrates and microscopic phytoplankton as well
as the higher biota (especially fish). Curriculum vitae of the staff at CRRHA were also
collected by TBW; again it is essential that these people be formally approached as soon as
possible with the view to appointing them to the project.
2.1.5 The University of Burundi, Bujumbura
It is essential that a mission to the university is mounted as soon as the situation in Burundi
improves. A number of the (very good) staff met at e.g. CRRHA are graduates of this
university. With the additional experience of working under the direction of e.g. Dr
Vandelannootte, these people constitute a valuable 'resource' which the LTBP cannot afford
to overlook.
2.1.6 NGOs
None identified
2.1.7 Other organisations
None identified
2.1.8 Potential study sites visited
A number of industrial outfalls and polluted rivers and streams exist within, or very close to,
Bujumbura itself. Security issues permitting, these could be sampled relatively easily - and
often - from the LTR, CRRHA and university laboratories.
___________________________________________________________________________
2.2 Tanzania
By far the greatest proportion (65% equivalent to 149,655 km2) of the total catchment area
of the lake lies in Tanzania. This country ranks second in terms of territory in the lake itself,
i.e. 13,327 km2, and on the basis of length of shoreline - 694 km. Tanzania also receives
water via the largest influent river to the lake - the Malagarasi, which drains an area of
130,000 km2 which is nearly 10 times that drained by the Rusizi(s). Other sizeable water
courses include the Lugufu draining some 4,400 km2, the Ifume (2,825 km2) and the Kalembe
(2,683 km2). While much smaller than these rivers, the Luiche was of interest to this mission
since it lies just a few kilometres from Kigoma (see below).
Not surprisingly this country encompasses a vast range of shoreline and offshore habitats. It
also includes a rich mosaic of situations ranging from perhaps some of the least impacted by
way of pollution (e.g. Mahale and Gombe areas) to the obviously perturbed zones such as
Kigoma Port and the associated bay. The main `scientific' centre of the LTBP is situated at
Kigoma; being well-served by an airport and a lake port, Kigoma is probably the most
accessible centre in the region for the delivery of freight from e.g. Europe, and for holding
meetings of personnel from the other 3 countries. The area is also well-resourced in terms of
communication facilities (telephone, facsimile and E-mail).
The present mission spent significant amounts of time in and around Dar es Salaam and
Kigoma. It motored and voyaged to some 10 potential field study sites - including lakeshore,
river and deltaic areas from Kigoma. One of us (EHA) also visited the Tropical Pesticide
Research Organisation in Arusha, in connection with our possible need for particular exacting
analyses, requiring instrumentation that is likely to be too expensive to be duplicated over the
region. This does not obviate the possibility, however, of regional scientists being training in
e.g. pesticide analysis.
2.2.1 Ministry of Water (Water Resources Technical Division), Dar es Salaam
We visited the Water Resources Division of the Ministry of Water in Dar es Salaam because
we knew that it is largely responsible for collecting and collating data on river flows in
Tanzania - including a number of sites in the Lake Tanganyika catchment. TBW has also
collaborated with this station in relation to the setting up of hydrological and chemical
analytical programmes for the Lake Victoria Environmental Management programme. The
Ministry houses a major analytical laboratory for the region - although in the event due to
circumstances out of anyone's control, it was not possible to assess this facility. This is not
likely to prove a problem for LTBP, however, as chemical (and biological) analytical facilities
already exist in the Kigoma area (see below) and these will be both strengthened and
supplemented by the new project.
RWD, TBW, GP and CF met with Mr Meraji O Y Msuya (Acting Director of Water
Resource and Mr Julius Mihayo on 2 September at the offices of the Ministry of Water
(formerly the Ministry of Water, Energy and Minerals), Dar es Salaam. The principal aim
was to determine their perception of the project following receipt of the Draft Inception
Report. Mr Msuya stated that no major concerns arose from the report and that he and his
training must be a focus of the project, he is currently preparing written comments on the
Pollution and Sediment Discharge Special Studies and these will be forwarded to the PCU in
Dar es Salaam. [At the time of writing, however, no comments have been received in UK].
The Ministry of Water has three Technical Divisions: Water Resources; Rural Water
Supplies; and Urban Water Supplies and Sewerage. The first of these is the most likely to
become involved in the LTBP.
Mr Msuya stressed that all relevant archive data on water and sediment discharge held by the
Ministry of Water will be made available. It is intended to publish hydrological data obtained
since 1981, the year of the last `Hydrological Yearbook of Tanzania' on a river basin basis
rather than in the previous form of the country as a whole. All such data are now reported to
be held on computer. It was confirmed that data from the Kigoma Regional Water
Department (see below) are sent to Dar es Salaam for analysis. However, it was pointed out
that few data on sediment transport are believed to exist. Mr Msuya undertook to provide
the PCU with an inventory of rivers for which sediment discharge data are held and a
summary of the nature of the data. Currently there are gauge readers at nearly all gauging
stations in the charge of the Ministry. Virtually no automatic water level recorders are
working. The possibility of establishing, within the project, a programme of sampling for
determining suspended sediment concentrations was discussed. It was confirmed that it
would be quite possible for gauge readers, subject to appropriate remuneration, to
additionally collect water samples at the times of their water level readings, e.g. at gauging
stations 4A9 and 4B9 (see below).
2.2.2 Ministry of Water (Water Resources Technical Division), Kigoma Regional
Water Department
Not least considering the central role of Kigoma that is envisaged for the LTBP, the Kigoma
Regional Water Department (KRWD) - a regional wing of the Ministry of Water based in Dar
es Salaam - was considered from the outset, important as well as convenient. This department
has a total of 50 staff of all grades and serves directly or indirectly, ca 40 % of the population
of approximately 1.2 million people. However, we found that the water resources business of
the Department is currently far more active than its other wing which is concerned with
chemical analysis.
Staff and main activities of the KRWD - water resources and sediment discharges
On 13 August RWD, TBW and CF met firstly with the principal staff, Michael Baragwiha
(Regional Water Engineer), C E L Rubabwa (Geologist) and Theodore Mpyalimi (Hydrologist
In Charge).
Some 9,400 cubic metres of water is currently supplied per day, whereas the built capacity of
the Kigoma Waterworks is 11,800 cubic metres/day. 90% of the water supplied is taken
directly from the lake via an intake situated near the foreshore of the Railway Hotel, and
located 60 metres from the shore at a depth of 5.8 metres. The quality of the raw water
abstracted from the lake appears to be good, and treatment consists of chlorination only (but
see below, remarks on 'pollution'). It should be noted that water supplies in parts of Kigoma
TAFIRI laboratory is thus essential. In addition to the main lake supply, there is one official
deep water supply well serving the town, and many `unofficial', dug wells. Routine
measurements of rainfall and lake water level are made.
In addition to supplying water and maintaining the treatment works, some studies of river
sediment transport have been carried out, though the data are far from comprehensive.
Measurements of the sediment load of the River Malagarasi were made at one time, but these
finished due to financial constraints. Data held at the KRWD date back to 1960. No data
processing is carried out on site - copies of all hydrological data being forwarded to the offices
of the Principal Secretary (Ministry of Water, PO Box 2000, Dar es Salaam), for analysis.
The original, raw data are still held at the KRWD however, and are readily available for the
LTBP, if required. At one time, hydrological data for the whole of Tanzania were collated by
the Ministry of Water in volumes of the `Hydrological Yearbook of Tanzania'. However,
these have not been produced since 1981, although a map of the locations of the various
gauging stations in the Kigoma Region (including stations on the Rivers Luiche and
Malagarasi) is available in the `Kigoma Water Master Plan'.
In terms of the LTBP Special Study on sediment discharge, it would appear necessary to visit
at least the lowermost gauging stations on the Rivers Luiche and Malagarasi - and this was
done (see below). The KRWD staff were unable to say what condition these stations are in,
although data on water but not suspended sediment discharge, are allegedly still being acquired
from these stations. The question remains as to whether or not these would be suitable
sampling locations for river suspended sediment concentrations. Ease of access was
established later in the mission.
Staff and main activities of the KRWD - water quality and pollution
The visiting group met secondly, with Paul Kiliho, a graduate, who has a staff of two in his
chemical laboratory: Mr Mbarak Shemweta (water quality technician with Technical
Certificate) who was present, and Ms Jane Rweyemamu (graduate technician) who was
absent.
Partly due to the perceived good quality of most of the (lake) raw water supply, and partly
as a result of very poor funding, pollution studies are not undertaken. Nevertheless, the plant
of the Tanzanian Electricity Supply Company (TANESCO) in Kigoma, for example, is
believed to be a significant point-source of oil pollution (TBW personal observation), and
insecticides are used around the lake on cotton and coffee crops, especially towards the
border with Burundi, and on tomatoes grown close to the lake between Kigoma and Ujiji.
Pesticides are also applied to maize crops. Domestic sewage is allegedly collected in septic
tanks; the contents of these are periodically transferred and dumped 10-15 km inland from
Kigoma at Katosho. The KRWD does not monitor pesticide levels in the water supply
because the concentrations present are not believed to pose a problem.
There were some inconsistencies in the various statements on what chemical analyses were
being done. For example, one account suggested that since the NORAD programme ended in
1992, the laboratory has continued to carry out standard chemical, physico-chemical and
bacteriological analyses on the stream and river waters used for supply. In this connection,
needed, for example when there is an outbreak of disease. Residual chlorine and bacteriological
analyses are carried out on water supplies from Kigoma water works once weekly. Lake
water samples are also allegedly analysed once per week. However, it was asserted that for
many of the determinands no permanent water quality assessment programme has been
established - at least for the lake itself, if not for rivers etc, too. Equally, while financial
constraints presently appear to limit the frequency and range of analysis carried out, it was
suggested that for river waters, sampling frequency is normally quarterly unless special
circumstances demand otherwise, and that the range of determinands includes pH,
conductivity, turbidity, temperature, colour, hardness and iron, The Department definitely
does not undertake any microscope work. The following observations also suggest that rather
little chemical analytical work is done - in large part for good reasons.
Main facilities
The present analytical laboratory is the only one of its kind in the Kigoma Region. Together
with a sister laboratory at Sumbawanga in Rukwa region (to the south of Kigoma Region), it
was built and equipped with the financial and technical assistance under the NORAD Water
Master Plan Study in 1980-1981. The following account refers to the Kigoma base, as there
was no opportunity during this mission to visit Sumbawanga. The Kigoma laboratory
measures approximately 7m x 5m, with storage/preparatory rooms at each end. The detailed
layout is given in Figure 1. The layout and condition of the laboratory benches are generally
satisfactory, but cupboards, benches and shelves are in poor shape and in need of repair. The
laboratory is not equipped with a fume cupboard, although Mr Kiliho assured us that the
components to construct the this were supplied at the time the laboratory was built, and are
still stored on site.
A few items of equipment have been purchased since the original installation but some of the
equipment is now non-functional (see next Table) and the existing range and quantity of
glassware is inadequate and will need supplementing. With the exception of the incubators,
the laboratory is lacking dedicated field monitoring equipment for basic physico-chemical
Table: Instruments and ancillary equipment at the Kigoma Regional Water
Department laboratory.
equipment
total No./No. functional
Incubator ('Termaks')
1/1
Water baths ('Heto')
4/3
Refrigerator ('Electrolux')
1/1
Heating plates ('Electrolux')
2/1
Autoclave ('Certoklav')
1/0
Water still (' Fison')
1/1
Balance - single pan ('Bosch')
1/1
Balance - top pan ('Bosch')
1/0
Comparator ('Hellige')
1/1
pH meter ('Metrohm Herrisau')
1/1
Conductivity meter ('Metrohm Herrisau')
1/1
Turbidity meter ('Hach' 2100A)
1/1
Field kit for chem/phys analysis ('Hach')
1/0
Membrane filtration equipment ('Sartorius')
2/2
Vacuum pump
1/0
Field kit - bacteriological analysis ('Millepore')
1/1
Water sampling equipment (sampler, bottles & sampling rods)
various
Field incubators ('Millipore')
1/1
Filtration, hand type
1/1
Spectrophotometer ('Hitachi, UV-Vis - Model 100-40')
1/1
parameters such as pH, dissolved oxygen, temperature and conductivity. At present, the
laboratory instruments are transported to field sites in a large wooden crate, a procedure
which is likely to cause damage to the equipment.
Analytical data
Analytical data exist, but most of these were generated during the period 1978-1992, whilst
NORAD was supporting the activities of the Department. The Kigoma Water Master Plan (7
volumes) produced by Norconsult contains much useful information and copies need to
acquired for LTBP. Data on both bacteriological and chemical aspects of water quality, are
archived at Kigoma and copied to Dar-es-Salaam. Time did not allow the present mission to
assess the extent of the archives, so the value of the information to the Project remains to be
estimated. It is recommended that the SLO contracts a member of staff from the Water
Department to do this.
Overall assessment and recommendations
The Regional Office of the Ministry of Water at Kigoma is responsible for the provision of
water supplies for industrial and domestic use in the region, and in that capacity is also
responsible for the water quality of the rivers. It is recommended that any possible role for
the water laboratory should be restricted to the monitoring of river waters.
A fume cupboard is required and the laboratory furniture repaired. It will be necessary for the
laboratory facilities, in particular instruments, glassware and chemicals, to be supplemented in
order that basic monitoring of rivers flowing into the lake can be effectively and regularly
carried out. As the activities of the TAFIRI laboratory focus on the lake itself, the monitoring
programmes of the two laboratories in Kigoma will be complementary to each other.
Furthermore, the analysis of common samples for a variety of determinands by the two
laboratories will enable inter-laboratory quality control checks to be made and hence improve
If the KRWD is to participate in the project the provision of equipment and training are the
priority needs. Hydrological activities must be improved and expanded to permit additional
discharge gauging. For this, and other purposes, a vehicle is required. Laboratory activities
should be expanded; more chemicals and equipment are needed. There is no telephone on site,
such a facility is desirable. Training for laboratory staff was requested by Mr Baragwiha. As
the KRWD offices are located far away from universities, the training of young hydrologists
and water analysts is not usually undertaken, although local secondary school pupils
periodically visit the KRWD as part of their studies in environmental education. The
prospect that was raised by the mission, of training of more staff (by European scientists
visiting the KRWD and KRWD personnel visiting European laboratories) was greeted with
particular enthusiasm.
There is also a Paul Kiriho who is Chief Chemist in the Kigoma Region Development
Programme (agricultural, planning and health aspects). The Dar es Salaam Ubunga Laboratory
should also be explored with regard to training aspects.
2.2.3 Ministry of Environment and Tourism, Regional Fisheries Department
This Fisheries Department office is important in being responsible for the collection of
official statistics on the status of the fisheries resources in Kigoma region. There is a
programme of regular monitoring of landings, based on a statistical system implemented by
FAO. Catches are monitored by landing location, boat, gear type, mesh size. The catch
weight is estimated from the number of boxes, and partitioned into categories:
Lates, Dinopterus, Boulangerochromis, Auchenoglanis, Tilapia, Dagaa.
As such, the Department may well prove of use to the LTBP in being in a position to supply
data on fish biodiversity from different grounds/habitats. Particularly valuable quantitative
and repeatable measures of species diversity could be established if a random selection of a
known number say, 100 fish in total (i.e. all species) were identified. Such material would
also permit an assessment of the size frequency distributions of such `catches' - for
comparison with and display alongside the size frequency patterns of other organisms in the
lake, e.g. planktonic and attached algae. The Fishery Department could also contribute
materially to the Lake Tanganyika project in being in a position to supply (following
appropriate `awareness' training and instruction) fish tissue (e.g. muscle, liver) for a suite of
pollutant and isotopic analyses.
Such aspirations are all the more achievable bearing in mind that the Fisheries Department is
situated just yards from the Kigoma TAFIRI laboratory. In common with this institute and
the FAO FINNIDA (LTR) premises, it is situated on the lake shore some 10 km from
Kigoma Airport, and ca 1 km from a railway and Kigoma Port itself. Space is no problem,
with the main building measuring approximately 25 m by 5 m; in addition there is a covered
boat yard, workshop and small store. Moreover there are 5 reception/office rooms already
reasonably well `furnished'. The building presently lacks power, however - not for lack of
wired sockets, but because these have not been connected to the mains. There is no
emergency power generator - and (obviously) no surge-protection/current stabilisation
facility.
The building does have a water supply, but only to latrines; there are no sinks. There are no
fans, and certainly no air-conditioning. There is no safe (chemical) store, and the fuel store
(concrete walls, tin roof and doors) is in need of repair. On the Health and Safety front, there
is neither First-Aid nor fire-fighting equipment. There were also no life-jackets - although
waterproof clothing and gum boots were listed as requirements for fisheries extension officers
in the field. Interestingly, there is evidently no fishing gear, or even a ruler or scale/balance, or
scale envelopes that might have been expected of a department with its particular remit.
However, it transpires that the main focus of this institution is the `landings' from a total of 7
stations in the Kigoma Region, i.e. 2 northern, 2 central and 3 southern areas - the data from
which are sent to Dar es Salaam for processing. Incidentally, 5 of the 7 beach recorders speak
English. The Department has no vehicles here, and only derelict open wooden boats and a
fibre glass launch, There are also no engines.
By contrast to the generally poor resources indicated above, the site possesses the following:
`Bubble-Jet' portable printer and paper and writing materials. In common with many
institutions visited however, `basics' such as consumables and batteries, were lacking.
Indeed, the PC referred to above could not be used, since (i) there was no power, and (ii) the
batteries for this machine had discharged.
While the site has 2 security personnel, locks for both offices and outbuildings were lacking.
Indeed, as the compound is not fenced, it is open to both road and lake.
The personnel were not investigated in detail. Field staff are seven Fishery extension officers,
each responsible for a station. There are three senior staff, responsible for administration and
fisheries statistics. One is Beatrice Mwara, currently employed as a Women's Development
Officer on the LTR project, and already working with the GEF Socio-economic studies group.
We recommend she also be employed on the Biodiversity and Fisheries Practices Special
Study, which will have a site at Ujiji, an area where catches are already monitored to some
extent. Senior staff names and qualifications are listed in the LTR directory.
The Department is also responsible for enforcement of fisheries legislation, and has the
power to impose fines and confiscate gear. Arrests are normally made through the Military
Police, as the Fisheries Department has no lake control or enforcement personnel.
2.2.4 Tanzania Fisheries Research Institute (TAFIRI) and LTR (FAO FINNIDA)
We visited this Institute because it is extremely well-known across East Africa. It already has
an impressive record with its involvement in large lakes and river systems including both Lake
Victoria and Lake Tanganyika. The Kigoma station also enjoys a high profile as a result of its
close association with the LTR (FAO FINNIDA) Lake Tanganyika Fisheries and
Hydrodynamics project (and Appendix V gives the names and scientific interests of the
nationals involved in Lake Tanganyika monitoring in LTR stations at Mpulungu, Uvira,
Bujumbura as well as Kigoma). Indeed, our visit was aimed primarily at exploring the
possibilities and arrangements for LTBP to capitalise on these `campus' facilities, and
employ TAFIRI staff to varying degrees, as the Finnish funding comes to an end.
CF headed the assessment of the mainly chemical resources shared by the LTR (FAO
FINNIDA), and the TAFIRI laboratories, while TBW attended to biological issues and
activities. Over two days (12 and 13 August) they met with Mr Chitamwebwe (TAFIRI's
Kigoma Station Director), Mr Kalangali and Mr Muhoza (respectively Researcher and
Technician in mainly zooplankton and micro-nekton); CF also had detailed discussions on
laboratory lay-out with Mr Kissaka in particular. The full names of the laboratory staff
together with their qualifications, areas of expertise and their years of experience are listed in
the next Table.
At numerous junctures during our stay in Kigoma TBW also discussed with Dr John Craig
(LTR's statistician) issues stemming from the LTR's results. In brief, this `science
compound' includes a significant corpus of dedicated scientists; indeed, the ones cited above
are very experienced by any standards, and their willingness to work LTR material with
virtually no pay (as the main monitoring programme has finished), is testament to their
technicians that we consider necessary in each lake country (and assuming for the present,
one centre in each country) to carry out the pollution and pollution-related biodiversity
studies under the GEF project. It is plain that this collection of science buildings and
personnel should be capitalised on and resourced. Indeed, bearing in mind the known
capabilities of the scientists, technicians and field support staff, the main focus was on
establishing what, if any, additional laboratory facilities were required.
At the FAO FINNIDA's Kigoma site, TBW also discussed at some length with Els Bosma
(zoologist) , Piet Verburg (Fisheries biologist) and colleagues (including Mr Chitamwebwe,
Mr Muhoza and Mr Lyoba) their current methods of zooplankton population density
assessments and size analysis, and the handling, presentation and interpretation of size (e.g.
length) frequency data. This was initiated by comments on the inordinate amount of time
these sample analysers were taking -as testified by the hundreds of samples that remain to be
analysed. TBW suggested that the present sample size was probably unnecessarily large and
that in any event, a strategy could be developed where sampling/counting could be terminated,
according to the specific values of each sample. Another suggestion introduced the use of
`rankits' or `ranked normal deviates' whereby every value of an attribute (e.g. copepod
length) that has been measured is plotted for examining the (length) frequency distribution - as
distinct from grouping such measurements into (length) classes; this is important bearing in
mind that where size classes are used, these should number at least 15 - this itself demanding
a large number of measurements to be made, otherwise one runs the risk of `influencing' the
size frequency distribution.
It is accepted by the FAO FINNIDA personnel that all of their equipment - which has been
carefully looked after - will be made available to the GEF project; this includes three very
smart binocular microscopes (one stereo, and two compound inverted).
Discussions indicated the willingness of this station to act as the main centre for GEF studies
in Tanzania. TBW also suggested that a workshop in limnological sampling and chemical and
biological laboratory methods be organised as soon as possible; this would involve say, five
scientists from each of the lake countries; it would use water, sediment and (lower) biota
collected by the participants from the reasonable range of open water, and sandy, rocky,
pebbly habitats existing near the station.
Table: Areas of expertise, qualifications and years of experience of TAFIRI laboratory
staff.
name
expertise
qualifications (years experience)
Mr Deonatus
Limnology
Dip.Fish., Dip. Limnol., BSc (23)
Chitamwebwa
Mr M B S Kissaka
Fish biology,
Dip. Fish., BSc. (Fish.), M.Tech.
Hydrodynamics
(Aquaculture) (21)
Mr Ibrahim Katonda
Fish biology
BSc, MSc. (Fish.) (22)
Mr Anthony Katangali
Zooplankton
BSc. (Dar es Salaam) (8)
Mr Elias Lyoba
Limnology
Cert. & Dip. (Fish.) (22)
Mr Ubald Kisisue
Fish biology, Marine
Dip. Fish. (17)
engineering
Mr Edmund Kadula
Fish biology,
Technician Cert. (General) (8)
Hydrodynamics
Mr Dmar Kashwshu
Fish biology,
Technician Cert. (General) (8)
Hydrodynamics
Ms Dina Lyoba
Fish biology,
Technician (6)
Hydrodynamics
Buildings - general
The basic laboratory buildings include 1 dry laboratory (for biological and limnological
analyses) and 1 wet laboratory which houses an inflatable craft and is used for the handling
and examination of wet (mainly fish) samples. Two other rooms are allocated for a library and
computing. CF assessed the laboratory facilities, focusing first on the existing layout of the
dry laboratory, and second on a new plan that he recommends in order to address drawbacks
in the current arrangement. He then assessed the laboratory equipment and the analyses
presently undertaken.
Dry laboratory - present design
The present laboratory (Figure 2a) is reasonably designed and equipped but suffers from a
number of drawbacks which could be relatively easily remedied. The only bench space
available comprises 4 tables situated in the centre of the laboratory. These tables are used
both for the microscope and the various limnological analyses. There is only one cupboard -
glass/solid fronted; this is used to store both chemicals and books. Meanwhile, glassware is
stored on open shelves where it is easily contaminated by dust. There is presently no fume
cupboard or air-conditioning unit, and the ceiling positioning of fans make zooplankton and
other work at the microscopes immediately beneath them rather difficult.
Dry laboratory - proposed design
The proposed modifications (Figure 2b) intended to address the above drawbacks, amount
basically to constructing wall and central benches; this will increase the available bench area
and enable the biological and limnological work to be grouped into distinct areas of the
laboratory. More power sockets will be provided by running a power line down the central
bench and changing single to double sockets where possible. The cupboard and drawer space
under the wall and central bench can then be used for the storage of equipment including
glassware and consumable items used for the biological and chemical analyses respectively.
The shelving down the middle of the central bench can also be used for reagents and samples
etc. needed for the limnological analyses.
The positions of the (new) fume cupboard and air-conditioning unit are so located because of
the availability of an outside wall. Air-conditioning would not only eliminate the need for
central fans, but would enable the upper window area to be sealed, thus reducing dust levels.
Laboratory equipment
The laboratory is generally fairly well-equipped for basic limnological parameters. Presently,
this is largely done using `Hach' kits. However, the items identified in the next Table would
increase the effectiveness of the laboratory substantially. The laboratory is particularly well-
resourced as far as microscopes are concerned - this reflecting a main interest in zooplankton
and micro-nekton. There are three especially fine instruments:
·
a `Leica' binocular Wild M3B Stereo
·
a `Leitz' `Labovert' inverted
Analytical measurements
The range of measurements that the laboratory is capable of carrying out (albeit using `Hach'
kits - see below) is as follows:
pH, Secchi disc, conductivity, DO, TP, SRP, NO3, NO2, NH3, I, alkalinity, Cl, Ca2+, Si2+,
total hardness, SO 2-
4 . Due to financial restraints, the frequency of measurements is now
somewhat restricted. If, as recommended, more conventional methods of measurement of
chemical analysis are adopted, more glassware will be required.
Table: Some equipment items recommended for the TAFIRI laboratory
equipment item number recommended
chest freezer - storage of sample bottles etc. - 1
water still - more recent model needed - 1
magnetic stirrer hot plates - 2
top-pan balance 0.01g sensitivity - 2
double-beam UV/visible spectrophotometer & spares - 1
fluorescence spectrophotometer - 1
camera and attachments for microscopes - 1
power stabiliser (present one only 1.5kVA) - 1
Overall Assessment
The staff of the TAFIRI laboratory have many years of experience and given the opportunity
are capable of making a substantial contribution to the LTBP. It is, therefore, recommended
that the TAFIRI laboratory should be the base for the limnological and biological
measurement in lake waters and that the laboratory of the Kigoma Regional Water
Department (Ministry of Water), in Kigoma, should concentrate on the monitoring of river
systems.
At present financial restrictions limit the monitoring activities of the TAFIRI laboratory. It is
strongly recommended that the Project supports the TAFIRI laboratory and makes full use of
the wealth of experience of the scientific staff for specific aspects of the research
programmes.
One of the key objectives of the present project is, of course, to strengthen selected lakeside
laboratories in the riparian countries. The changes in laboratory layout and facilities
recommended for the TAFIRI site will result in much better use of the available space; hence,
it should enhance the long-term sustainability of the laboratory research and monitoring
programmes.
A further issue that has a bearing on the long-term monitoring of the lake relates to the nature
of the analytical methods currently used to determine the limnological parameters. The
`Hach' kit methods that are currently used, whilst being ideal for measurements in the field,
are much less suitable for laboratory-based analyses. Kit-based procedures are frequently
packed chemicals. They also tend to nurture a `cook-book' approach to chemical
measurements which can result in an uncritical acceptance of data.
It is, therefore, recommended that the long-term and cost-effective acquisition of limnological
data on the lake (in the other three countries as well as Tanzania) would be best achieved by
the adoption of the more traditional methods of analysis. The `Hach' kit approach could still
be retained for field work and as an alternative method for cross-checking data acquired by
traditional procedures. The adoption of the latter will require initial training programmes, but
these could usefully be combined with the trial sampling and analytical measurements already
planned and which are aimed at harmonising sampling and analytical procedures throughout
the Project.
2.2.5 Tropical Pesticides Research Institute, Arusha
General information on TPRI
The mission was especially keen to visit TPRI in spite of the fact that Arusha is so far from
Lake Tanganyika. Firstly, the institute is world-renowned, and secondly, the LVEMP
project identification team of which TBW was a member in 1995, had been very well received
at Arusha. EHA assessed the resources of TPRI on 5-9-96.
TPRI is situated on Nairobi Road, 8km from Arusha at Ngaramtoni. The institute dates back
to 1945, and has been in Arusha since 1950. It was founded as the Colonial Insecticides
Research Unit. Since independence, it was first an East African Common Services
Organisation but, following the collapse of the East African Community, it was incorporated
as an institute into the Tanzanian Ministry of Agriculture. The institute now employs over
300 people, and conducts both research and technical services in pesticide control and
management. Activities and institutional structure, staff lists and ongoing research projects
are outlined in the appended report.
The Chief Research Officer, Mr Charles J. Muangirwa, was most helpful in outlining the
work of the institute. His own research is in Tsetse control. EHA explained the role of the
LTBP and the likely requirements for pesticide residue analyses, and was taken to the
Physical and Chemical Division, to meet Mr Jonathan Ak'habuhaya, the head of that
department, who has been responsible for establishing the Environmental Chemistry
programmes within TPRI. Mr Ak'habuhaya has worked on pesticide residues and heavy
metals in fish, aquatic plants, fish etc, in various Tanzanian rivers and lakes, including Lake
Victoria. He was very interested in potential collaboration with the project, and was of the
opinion that their department has unrivalled experience and facilities within Tanzania for
chemical analysis. He appears very enthusiastic and quite dynamic, but it is noted that his
last published research was done with Finnish scientists in 1988.
Laboratory facilities and activities - with special reference to the Physical and Chemical
Division
The laboratories are certainly extensive, generally in good order, and well-equipped. They
are also reliable. Many of the analytical apparatus were not functional however, and were
described as having 'small problems' (e.g. missing lamps in Atomic Absorption
Spectrophotometer). It was also striking that in laboratories where over 50 scientists are
employed, only 3 were actually working. One was checking the composition of an industrial
insecticide (Actelic) in the Pesticides Registration and Control Laboratory, using a new
computer-linked HPLC purchased from South Africa. The second, in the Technical Services
Department, was writing a report on modifications required to a new crop-sprayer from
Japan. The third was a research officer in the Physical and Chemical Division fractionating
plant material in the search for the active ingredient in a tick-repelling plant. The
instrumentation room in the Physical and Chemical Division was locked at the time of the
visit. There were many freezers containing samples of soil, plant material, human blood and
urine, all awaiting analysis.
As indicated already, the main laboratories are very large - typical of many big teaching
laboratories in a University Chemistry Department - and could accommodate training courses,
or more intensive activity (including the simultaneous presence of all TPRI staff!). Several
staff have come from ICIPE in Nairobi, and are therefore suitably qualified. The most senior
technician has been working at the laboratory for 38 years!
Current pesticide residue research is being carried out on vegetation, water and soil and human
body fluids. This research has been sponsored by FAO, FINNIDA and IDRC, Canada in the
past, but the impression the gained is that this funding has come to an end.
The next Table indicates some of the equipment observed during the visit.
Library
The library is in a sorry state. The roof has leaked badly in the past, and has caused extensive
damage. There are internal reports - probably unique - dating back to 1945 stored there. Staff
at the institute do not appear to appreciate the archival value of old journals and reports. On
the other hand, they are rightly concerned that new subscriptions are very limited. There is
very little literature dating from more recently than 1978, apart from the usual plethora of
leaflets, bulletins and free newsletters from various international and national research and aid
organisations.
As there is no realistic possibility of filling gaps in journal subscriptions, the library is
planning to go to on-line journals and CD-ROM abstracts as their main source of recent
published information.
Other departments
There was no opportunity to visit the other departments, but it is understood that the
Institute also houses the National Herbarium and The National Plant Gene Bank. It is also
developing an entomological museum. These are all biodiversity-related activities, perhaps
more relevant to the National Biodiversity Strategy project (FAO) than the Lake Tanganyika
GEF.
It should be noted that the National Radiological Protection Laboratory, although not part of
the institute, is located on the same site.
Table: Some large/sophisticated equipment in TPRI.* indicates not functional.
equipment item
Gas Chromatograph `Hewlett Packard 5890A', Capilliary ECD detector, Paper output
`DANI 680' Gas Chromatograph, supplied by FAO; no detector, otherwise working
Two Gas Chromatographs supplied by Finnish Institute of Occupational Health *
`JASCO UVIDEC-100-V HPLC', supplied by International Atomic Energy Authority ( a second one arrived at the airport the
day of EHA's visit); associated equipment: `Scalar ratemeter', liquid scintillation counter, Biological oxidiser
`Unicam SP90A Ser 2' Atomic Absorbtion Spectrophotometer * (lamps broken)
New `GBC A.H. Korthof' AAS, not yet used, awaiting lamps.
UV/Visible Spectrophotometers (several)
Ovens, refrigerators and freezers - abundant
pH meters
Fraction collector - `Pharmacia'
TLC coater
Abundant specialised glassware for distilling, fractionation columns etc., but some broken flasks still being used: this suggests
basic consumables may be in short supply.
Portable refrigerator for field use
Speed vacuum concentrator with refrigerated condensation trap, several other sample concentrators
Centrifuge
Analytical evaporator
De-ionisers
Vortex machines
Gas supplies
Fully equipped darkroom and range of photographic equipment.
Capability for development of slides and colour film
`ACER 386' Computer with Dot-Matrix printer - considered inadequate
Various balances (sensitivity up to 4 dp)
Nitrogen generator *
Computerised HPLC - `Varian 9012', `Varian 9065' Polychrom (in Technical Services Dept., not Physical and Chemical Division
of the Research Dept., ie used for full-strength samples, not residues)
Overall Impression
TPRI work on research, monitoring and extension services in pesticide use in agriculture and
agricultural and human pest control. They provide a valuable service to the Tanzanian
agricultural and health sectors. It is believed that this institute would function if it had more
funds. It has a huge and apparently well trained staff, good facilities, extensive laboratories
and grounds for field trials, and it is conducting some routine monitoring programmes within
its very limited budget. It has a large assortment of analytical equipment, most of which it
project to get the institute working to its capacity, but perhaps if the Lake Tanganyika
biodiversity project become involved, then other donors can be encouraged to involve TPRI in
their programmes and provide some further institutional support. It was built to service the
needs of East Africa, and is now working only in Tanzania. Involvement in regional projects
(e.g. SADC) may expand their activities to fill those large empty labs.
Appended Material
Mr Ak'habuhaya gave EHA reprints including a Review of Pesticides in Tanzania (1988), the
1991 TPRI Annual Report, a Research and Technical Services Activities Booklet (1993-
1996), a TPRI Information Leaflet, and some Business cards for Mr Ak'habuhaya and Mr
Muangirwa (each including E-mail addresses).
2.2.6 Dar es Salaam University, Faculty of Science
The mission wanted to visit the University of Dar es Salaam, and its Science Faculty and
component departments in particular (in spite of the remoteness from the lake) for a number
of reasons. Firstly, it constitutes the most concentrated corpus of scientists including those in
the natural sciences which could be of major relevance to the LTBP. Secondly, it was likely
to have researchers and technicians skilled in areas that could be of considerable value to the
project even if they had not been applied or related to the aquatic environment previously.
Thirdly, the university was viewed as one of the major locations of large and/or sophisticated
apparatus and instrumentation, that might be of value to the LTBP, but too expensive to
warrant purchase by the project. Some of these pre-judgements on the potential
relevance/use of the university were confirmed. Equally, however, some departments
appeared to be very poorly motivated. Mainly as a consequence of the non-appearance of
personnel, EHA and TBW were invited into the very impressive University Press.
2.2.7 Dar es Salaam University, Department of Botany
Met with Senior Lecturer in Applied Microbiology (Dr A Kivaisi), the Head of Botany,
Professor A K Semesi was not present. LTBP was explained to Dr Kivaisi but she seemed
quite uninterested - simply pointing out that `we do nothing like that here'.
2.2.8 Dar es Salaam University, Department of Chemistry
At meetings on 3 September between CF, Professor Nkunya, Associate Dean (Academic),
Faculty of Science and Professor Mulokozi, Acting Head , Department of
Chemistry, the objectives and scope of the Lake Tanganyika Project were outlined and the
possible involvement of the Department of Chemistry was discussed.
Professor Nkunya outlined the research and teaching activities of the Department and
described future plans. As part of a Science Faculty review of undergraduate and post
graduate courses, the current teaching programme is being restructured to focus more on the
relevance of chemistry to society and to the environment in general. Undergraduate courses in
Environmental Sciences are due to commence in the 1997 academic year and an MSc in
Environmental Science has been approved by the University and will also commence in 1997.
Staff and Research Activities
At the time of the visit , most of the staff seemed to be away from the University and there
was little evidence of an active research environment. Professor Mosha who is an experienced
analytical chemist known to CF from his time at Kenyatta University was away in Kenya .
Dr Mhinzi, also an experienced analytical chemist who is working on a study of salinity in
Rift Valley lakes in conjunction with the Department of Chemistry , Oslo University, was
also away at the time of the visit. It is not known whether these two members of staff ,
would be available or willing to participate in the project activities. This possibility is being
followed up.
Laboratory Facilities
Mr Mapunda, the Laboratory Superintendent took CF on a tour of the research laboratories.
Equipment in the Department potentially relevant to the project are as follows:
AAS- Perkin Elmer 2380 . Flame only facility . Adequate lamps . Instrument 5 years old but
apparently working OK,
IR, GLC, HPLC, UV and NMR instruments. GLC and HPLC recently acquired through
NORAD funds.
The department has no gas generators for GLC analysis and is thus reliant on compressed gas
from Tanzania Oxygen Company or from overseas suppliers. Such compressed gas supplies
are very costly.
There was little evidence of an active analysis programme using these instruments at the time
of the visit.
Recommendation
On the basis of an admittedly brief and essentially unheralded visit, there would seem to be
little potential for collaboration between the Department and the analytical aspects of the
project. Considerable investment would need to be made to provide the capability necessary
for the analysis of samples for pesticides and heavy metals and in view of the better facilities
that exist at TPRI in Arusha, such an injection of funds is not recommended.
The commencement of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in the Environmental
Sciences is however an opportunity for collaboration between the Lake Tanganyika project
and the Chemistry department. Several possibilities come to mind. Thus, for example,
materials suitable for both the undergraduate and postgraduate course which focus on the
nature, origins and current status of the Lake and also include the results of the Special
Studies would help to raise the profile of the Lake at a University level. A further
opportunity for links between the Department and the Project would be for some of the
2.2.9 Dar es Salaam University, Department of Civil Engineering
On 2-9-96 RWD, TBW and CF met with Mr Simon H Mkhandi, co-ordinator of the Flow
Regimes from International and Experimental Data programme (FRIEND) for southern
Africa; he is based in the Department of Civil Engineering. FRIEND involves 11 countries
and its aim is to carry out, using computer software developed in the department, a flood
frequency analysis for the whole of southern Africa. This is not a data gathering programme;
all the relevant data are provided by various ministries, e.g. the Ministry of Water in
Tanzania. For the purposes of the programme, ten regions are delineated for the country and,
of possible relevance to the project, analyses have been undertaken for the River Malagarasi.
Currently, the FRIEND programme is not concerned with sediment transport. However, the
intention is to incorporate sediment transport data into the modelling as soon as possible.
Possible links with the LTBP could be through the acquisition of data relevant to FRIEND.
However, active involvement in LTBP, in terms of data acquisition, by FRIEND personnel
would not be appropriate.
2.2.10 Dar es Salaam University, Department of Geology
Staff met, and main research activities
On 2-9-96 RWD, TBW and CF met with Dr Hudson Hamisi Nkotagu (hydrologist and
Acting Head of the Department of Geology) and Dr S Kapilima (stratigrapher).
Departmental personnel are involved in a major project on mining pollution in Tanzania,
sponsored by the Swedish Agency for Research Co-operation with Developing Countries
(SAREC). The project which has been going for two years - and is likely to continue for a
further two years - is concerned with the impact of all kinds of open-cast and deep mining
activities for both metallic and non-metallic materials.
The work began in the Lake Victoria area but has since expanded to the Uvinza (salt mines)
area, i.e. to catchments draining into Lake Tanganyika. The Acting Co-ordinator of the
project (not available at the time of the meeting) is Dr Mutakyahwa. In addition, six academic
staff are involved part-time, together with occasional M.Sc. students and visiting Swedish
scientists. The field programme involves the collection of water and sediment samples, but
not vegetation or animal samples, from streams and rivers in areas of mining activity. Some
samples are sent to Sweden for analysis but most are analysed in the department.
The staff with whom discussions were held appeared to be both well qualified and motivated.
They were also recommended to the project by Dr A Cohen of the University of Arizona.
For example, Dr Nkotagu has recently had two papers, on the isotopic characteristics of
groundwater in Tanzania, published in the Journal of African Earth Sciences (Pergamon). He
is also actively involved in research collaboration with BGS Wallingford in the UK and has
had published a 158-page monograph : `Hydrogeological and isotopic characterisation of a
fractured basement groundwater flow system in the semi-arid area of Dodoma, Tanzania'.
Potential links with the LTBP
Potential involvement of the Department in the LTBP was met with an enthusiastic response.
It was suggested that analyses of pollutants, on a seasonal basis, might be extended to the
lower reaches of several rivers draining into the lake in the Kigoma region and linked to the
river gauging and suspended sediment sampling programmes. If the XRD can be repaired it
would be possible to integrate a programme of semi-quantitative mineralogical analysis to the
studies of sediment discharge and heavy metals. A major unknown concerns the extensive
Malagarasi-Moyowosi swamps, in particular whether they are a sink for heavy metals.
Analysis of samples collected above and below the swamps would be needed to ascertain
this. It was suggested that sediment sampling and analysis could be undertaken as part of the
programme of research of M.Sc. students. The M.Sc. degree is normally 24 months by thesis
in the University of Dar es Salaam. Dr Nkotagu did not believe that it would be a problem for
students to work so far away from the University, providing that funding support was made
available. The collaboration could thus strengthen the Special Study on `Pollution' per se, the
one on `Sediment Pollution' and the programmes concerned with these impacts of the
pollutants on lake biodiversity.
Instrumentation
The main analytical tool is an Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS), suitable for analysis
of heavy metals (the principal pollutants are Cr, Ni and Hg). However, this equipment has
problems with its graphite furnace and a lack of spare parts. Expert help is needed to effect
the necessary maintenance and repairs. The department also has XRD equipment (not seen,
as the key to the lab was lost), but this is not functioning. The problem is apparently due to
a faulty cooling system, the cost of repairs being uncertain. It is believed that a complete
overhaul of the instrument will be needed because it has been out of working order for several
years.
2.2.11 Dar es Salaam University, Department of Zoology
GP visited on 1/11/96 and met with Dr Kasigwa (HOD Dr Urasa not present). Kasigwa not in
a relevant field but expressed his Departments interest. The main contact that was made by
EHA and TBW, was with Mr Botterweg from the Netherlands, on a contract that finishes on
1 December 1996, unless he can raise more funds. Moreover, Mr Botterweg is not an aquatic
ecologist. Still, he proved immensely interesting and was interested in our project,
particularly in connection with his main pre-occupation of establishing a tabular and
Geographical Information System (GIS) database on animal (mainly vertebrate) biodiversity
in Tanzania. In this context, he demonstrated the Microsoft `Access' and `MAPINFO' (not
`ARCHINIFO') - structured system. The system, which presently includes datasets on
freshwater fish, partitions the country into 7 or 8 biogeographical zones. Maps based on
such criteria as `IUCN status' and `endemism' can be produced, as well as traditional
distributions/dispersions of animals. Maps are based on a _o x _o grid. Latitude-longitude
reference points can be imported into the MAPINFO arrays. Throughout, a specimen is
linked to the source record and name of recorder. Mr Botterweg's system is very impressive;
we agreed to keep in touch as the LTBP evolves.
Staff at the Biology Department may be interested in participating in Biodiversity-related
studies. Most of their fisheries/aquatic science interests are centred around marine systems.
They have, through Dr Kim Howell, an interest in amphibians, and they may be enlisted for
species inventory work in Mahale NP, for example, where total flora and fauna surveys could
be conducted.
Interest in involvement in the Lake Tanganyika project was rather guarded. The fact that staff
were heavily committed to existing projects, including other national and regional GEF
biodiversity projects, was repeatedly mentioned, and requests were made for detailed work
plans and specific requirements for staff time, estimates of funds available etc. It seems likely
that this will have to be provided before we get any form of capability statement from them.
Note that Mr S.G.M. Ndaro, formerly of TAFIRI, Kigoma, is now employed as a lecturer in
Dar es Salaam. This was not known at the time of the visit, so he was not contacted. He
carried out the only study to date (published in 1992) on the catch-composition of beach-seines
in Lake Tanganyika.
Action - send detailed work plans and formal invitation for involvement to Dr Kim Howell -
including amount of funding available, time commitment required etc. In return, request CV
and submission of any relevant research proposals. (MRAG)
Contact Mr Ndaro to guage interest of UDSM in involvement in fisheries-related research.
2.2.12 Institute of Resource Assessment
The Forest Resource Management Project (FRMP) at the University of Dar es Salaam's
Institute of Resource Assessment (USDM-IRA) is currently preparing satellite images and
maps for the (World Bank funded) National Reconnaissance Level Land Use/Cover and
Natural Resources Mapping Project. Huntings Technical Services (HTS) are providing
technical assistance. This is an "aerial" mapping project of all Tanzania at 1:250,000 scale,
based on 1994/95 Landsat TM data, included as one component of the FRMP. The project is
applying manual interpretation of TM image mosaics to provide 1:250,000 land cover
mapping of Tanzania. 64 map sheets cover the country (5 cover the immediate L.
Tanganyika shoreline on the Tanzania side). The Project co-ordinator is Mr. Jackson
Musokwe at the Ministry of Natural Resources. This project is funded and controlled by
World Bank Nairobi (task manager Paul Ryan) and commenced in 1992/93.
GP met with David Smith of Huntings. The project getting close to production of full map
cover for Tanzania. There is a pipeline proposal for using archive satellite imagery to look at
changes of forest cover in the last ten years comparing the currently produced maps to some
derived form old Landsat data. They are considering in particular 7 LANDSAT areas close
to the Lake shore and including a most of the Malagarasi catchment and approximately 50 %
of the lake shoreline. The project should look into this as a possible additional data set and
perhaps we can direct the study and look at catchment changes in forest cover and the extent
of wetland shrinkage over the period. The contact would be Rob Behr at World Bank,
Nairobi - the potential sponsors.
2.2.13 Institute of Marine Sciences, Zanzibar.
Since the visit GP has received a fax from Dr Nyandwi of the Institute of Marine Sciences (part
of UniDar) expressing his interest in the project. Dr Nyandwi has a good background as a
sedimentologist and should be considered for involvement in the project.
2.2.14 Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA)
Good contacts were established with TANAPA, both at their headquarters in Arusha and in
Mahale Mts and Gombe Stream National Parks. We have received a specific request for
biodiversity inventories in Mahale that we should respond to. Mr Mwasaga, Chief Ecologist,
and the senior staff at Mahale have supported the principle of establishing research facilities,
environmental education centres and increasing tourism, both on land and in the water in
Mahale.
2.2.15 Wildlife Division, Department of Environment and Tourism
While Wildlife Division staff are unlikely to be directly involved in field research, contact
should be established, through the Director Mr Bakari Mbano, to obtain further details of the
new game reserve in the catchment area (see section 4.3.6). Mr. Mbano is also responsible for
the administration of the Mafia Island Aquatic Reserve, and it may be useful to learn from
this project in setting up aquatic reserves that allow local community involvement in limited
exploitative activities.
a. Wildlife Conservation Society of Tanzania
CF and TBW visited (3-9-96) the WCST partly because it's headquarters are situated within
a few hundred metres of the British Council and the (then) LTBP office, but also because a
number of people that we had met on our travels, had recommended such a visit. This proved
to be good advice. In addition to welcoming us very graciously, the WCST's co-ordinator
(Ms Alice Bhukali) and her staff demonstrated a very well-organised set-up, and impressive
displays. This led to discussions on possibly links with the LTBP - and especially in the
context of Environmental Education (see 4.2.2).
b. Frontier Tanzania
GP visited the headquarters of Frontier Tanzania. This is a linkage programme between the
University of Dar es Salaam and the Society for Experimental Exploration and they have been
conducting a number of projects in Tanzania including a large programme to survey the littoral
zone of Mafia Island. They have long experience of training African counterparts in diving
and underwater survey techniques. The HQ of the Society of Experimental Exploration is in
UK.
c. Others
TACARE. Tanzania Catchment Reforestation organisation: community work, sustainable
agriculture. Successful NGO - EU funded. Contact: Mr Mtiti.
COIPIBO - sutainable agriculture practices
CADIC - environmental organisation
CRDB - Co-operative Rural Development Bank
KRFCU - Kigoma Region Fisheries Co-operative Union - upcoming local initiative.
2.2.17 Other organisations
a. The Lake Victoria Environmental Management Plan (LVEMP)
TBW had met Mr Mbwana, the Co-ordinator of LVEMP on a number of previous occasions
during his project identification mission to the Lake Victoria counties in 1995. Mr Mbwana
had also contributed to the LTBP Inception Workshop (which TBW and GP attended) in
March 1996. The reason for visiting him again (3-9-96) was to introduce EHA and CF to
him, catch up on progress with the Lake Victoria studies, but more importantly to get him to
outline his experiences in setting up and co-ordinating a `large African lake' research
programme. He made the following points which might be borne in mind for the LTBP:
experts (especially in land use) exist in-country provided one can obtain maps, images etc.
not surprisingly, very good staff also exist in fisheries and biodiversity
for advice and information on pollution - utilise water departments, universities etc, for
the initial identification of pollution at point-sources; then bring in local international
experts for non-point sources
it is very important to select personnel carefully, as one needs people who are especially
committed, i.e. willing to take time and care over their duties; in addition one needs
personnel who can assist from the outset with report writing
Mr Mbwana can assist on staff selection if asked.
b. Department of Wildlife, Chilanga
Department of Wildlife are responsible for activities within Nsumbu National Park, which
includes part of the lake. I did not meet any staff from Wildlife Department on my visit
(EHA), but I was able to speak to Dr H. Mwima, Chief ecologist, by telephone later the same
evening. Involvement of Wildlife Research Staff in biodiversity survey activities is a possibility
that needs to be investigated. Dr Mwima expressed strong interest. According to Dr Mwima
(Chief Ecologist, Dept. of Wildlife) there is currently no active research work in Nsumbu NP.
There is no biologist on the park staff. GEF activities could provide a catalyst for other
wildlife-related research activities.
Action: Biodiversity research plans to be sent to Dr Henry Mwima, Chief Ecologist,
Department of Wildlife.
c. World Wide Fund for Nature
There is a WWF programme of Wetlands research, based in the Wildlife Dept, Chilanga.
Details of the GEF project were left with the programme. Possible collaboration in Lufubu
river area, Nsumbu park.
Action: Contacted by EHA, awaiting reply
2.2.18 Potential study sites in Tanzania
The mission was mounted primarily for the purpose of assessing institutions (buildings,
equipment and people). However, it had always been hoped that the team would also have
the opportunity to visit areas of the lakeshore, to gain (in some cases first-hand) impressions
of the types of field sites and `habitats' that we would be assessing and sampling in order to
establish to what extent pollution/sediment pollution affects biodiversity. In the event, we
not only saw vast stretches of shore-line and experience boat journeys over long distances
while travelling between Kigoma, Mahale, Uvira and Mpulungu: we were also able to visit
(by road or boat), a variety of areas for long enough spells to take this project's first samples
of e.g. sediment, rock, water, plankton and attached organisms. Although some of these
excursions were made in conjunction with visits to institutions, the majority of the total of
approximately 15 areas described in this section were visited primarily to see the
environmental/ecological features; examples are inland, and deltaic zones of running waters,
and numerous bays and shoreline stretches of the lake itself. The areas are reported below in
order of location from North to South i.e. from Gombe to Mahale.
i. Gombe Stream National Park
A full day trip to Gombe Stream National Park was made on 29-8-96 by RWD, KB and
Bertha, primarily to facilitate the visit of the British High Commissioner to Tanzania, Alan
Montgomery, and his daughter Justine. The journey to Gombe (ca two hours from Kigoma)
on the lake. The guided walks within the confines of the park and reception were hosted by
Mr Dattomax G M Sellanyika who is the Acting Warden of the Gombe National Park, with
34 staff; the associated Jane Goodall Foundation has 26 staff. A useful, illustrated publication
on the park and its wildlife is that by Bygott (Bygott, D., 1992 Gombe Stream National
Park. Tanzanian National Parks/African Wildlife Foundation, 67 pp.)
Along its coastal length of 7 km, 13 streams enter Lake Tanganyika perennially via Gombe
Park. Two of these - draining small, unimpacted, forested catchments - were examined in
detail. A further five flow only during the rainy season. None of the rivers is gauged. Since
there are no roads in the park, access to the lower reaches of any potential river sites must be
via boat and/or on foot along the lake shore. Gombe occupies a naturally forested site,
completely unimpacted in terms of disturbance of the land by cultivation. As such, and in
common with Mahale, it could provide an important comparison - for sediment discharge
studies - with areas that are cultivated and/or deforested. Especially as so few studies of
sediment yields from land covered by virgin forest have been conducted, the two continually
flowing streams referred to above, would be valuable. These same sites are equally attractive
as far as the studies on pollution and its effects on biodiversity are concerned. Any data from
Gombe could also be of value in a wider context than even that of the LTBP. Indeed, from
the probable main project base at Kigoma it would be more practical to carry out sampling in
Gombe (50 km away) than in Mahale (150 km).
Mr Sellanyika indicated that he would be very enthusiastic about the possibility of some of
the streams in the Gombe Park being used for sediment discharge or other studies. Indeed, he
would be prepared to make a very positive recommendation to that effect to his superiors.
However, as is the case for Mahale, there is absolutely no equipment available at Gombe for
such studies. Thus, all necessary items would have to be brought in (see section on Mahale
for more details). In addition, river discharge gauging would be needed. It would be both
costly and impractical to establish permanent or semi-permanent gauging stations on the
streams and it is suggested that the method of dilution gauging would be the most suitable if
some of the Gombe rivers were to be studied. In contrast, the `lending' of simple water
quality probes, sampling gear, filtration apparatus and batches of sample tubes and e.g. a
freezer-refrigerator, would make feasible a useful suite of pollution and biodiversity
investigations; capacity-building would also be achieved through the programmes of training
that would be mounted in order to execute these studies.
ii. Rivers Luiche and Malagarasi
The lowermost gauging stations on the Rivers Luiche and Malagarasi are designated as 4B9
and 4A9, respectively (DANIDA) and are located ca 15 km and 30 km up-river from Lake
Tanganyika. RWD and KB, in the company of Theodore Mpyalimi (Hydrologist in Charge
at KRWD) and a second member of KRWD staff, visited these sites on 28-8-96. The KRWD
personnel, owing to the lack of a vehicle, had last inspected these stations in June 1993! The
journey by Land Rover from Kigoma (ca 25 km) to 4B9 took about 40 minutes with road
access directly to the station. The distance to 4A9 (ca 107 km) was completed in about two
hours and 15 minutes by vehicle and a further 10 minutes on foot (but see below). At each
gauging station the water level is read manually from post gauges by local personnel
are recorded three times per day, at 07.00, 12.00 and 18.00 hours (N.B. this information was
ascertained in the field; it had not been provided previously by the KRWD) and the data
forwarded to the Ministry of Water.
iii. Sites between Kigoma and Gombe
Between Kigoma and Gombe the shore of Lake Tanganyika is characterised by steep, often
wooded cliffs delimiting the eastern margin of the rift valley. These are broken by many river
valleys, often deeply incised, at the foot of which are developed alluvial fans. The latter
provide sites for numerous small settlements and villages. In places, active burning of
vegetation was observed on high slopes. Elsewhere, large areas of recently burned slopes
were visible extending down to the lake beaches. Gully erosion is widespread and it is likely
that the loss of vegetation cover has contributed to gully development.
On 27-8-96, a detailed study (incorporating photographs - available from RWD) was made of
one well-developed gully at the foot of which was a small, but archetypal alluvial fan. This
feature was drawn to the attention of the SLO by Dr Tony Collins, a primate researcher at
Gombe Stream National Park. According to his observations the fan at the foot of the gully
formed as a consequence of a single episode of high intensity rainfall during the last (i.e. 1995-
96) rainy season. The sediment released during this event, ranging in size from fine particles
to cobbles, was largely composed of heavily weathered and lateritised sedimentary
(sandstone) bedrock. This had accumulated on top of modern, relatively well-rounded, beach
gravels and was readily distinguishable in terms of its overall red colour, angularity and poor
sorting of particles. The distal edge of the fan showed evidence of wave erosion - indicating
that a higher lake level than that prevailing on the day of observation had existed at some time
after fan development. Measurements were made of the lengths of the three sides of the fan,
its vertical height at positions along the toe, its lateral margins and at its apex. From these
dimensions, the volume of eroded debris forming the fan was estimated to be ca 80 m3. This
is, however, a minimum estimate since some debris will have been removed to the lake by
wave redistribution. On the basis of an average density of 1.6 t m-3, the minimum mass of
material eroded in this one event was some 130 t.
This one-off study is of limited value. However, sequential, systematic observations of the
marginal slopes of the lake in the area between Gombe and Kigoma could easily be achieved.
The impact of vegetation burning, which is carried out for no apparent reason, could be
evaluated on a seasonal basis. Selected gullies could be monitored and the impact of onshore
practices on sediment movement assessed. The existence of such a wide variety of beach and
shoreline substrates could be of considerable relevance to the Special Studies, in their efforts
to distinguish between species diversity and distribution patterns controlled by pollution and
the patterns determined by availability/non-availability of substrate.
iv. Lake Shore Sites to the South of Kigoma
During the period 23 to 25-8-96, RWD and KB visited several lake shore sites within a few
kilometres to the south of Kigoma, each readily accessible by road. They included:
boulder and cobble beaches to the north and south of the promontory at Kitwe (visited
and photographed by TBW in November 1995)
the extensive, flat, sandy beach at Ujiji (also visited and photographed by TBW in
November 1995)
two small pocket beaches of sand (`Jacobsen's Beaches', also visited by TBW on this
occasion).
These sites afford, in a small area, a wide variety of substrate types, ranging from bedrock,
boulders and cobbles to fine sand. The beaches close to Kitwe are thought to be the least
impacted of the group of sites in terms of human activity; they are characterised by well-
rounded particles of quartzite derived from local cliffs of conglomerate. Above water level the
cobbles are encrusted with films of diatoms and other algae. The long, wide stretch of sandy
beach at Ujiji is heavily impacted by human activity, including fishing and boat-building
located close to many dwellings. Several small streams enter the lake in this area, flowing over
the beach en route. The pocket (i.e. rock-bounded) `Jacobsen's Beaches' essentially represent
closed systems in terms of sediment, little material being either lost or gained. These are being
developed for tourist use and are beginning to become popular with visitors. At the time of
observation, a shell and auger drilling rig was in position on the southern beach, evidently for
the purpose of drilling a bore hole for groundwater. Still, these beach sites are likely to be of
potential importance to the biodiversity and pollution studies, particularly with reference to
lower organisms. Their ease of access is of especial significance. The beaches may, however,
be of lesser relevance to the sediment study.
v. River Luiche - Gauging Station 4B9
This station is located adjacent to the road bridge at Simbo where, on the day of observation,
the breadth of the river was ca 20 m. An automatic water level recorder was at one time
installed at the site but it was subsequently washed away during a flood. Two post gauges
are therefore used to record water levels manually. The lower post, for dry season flow
conditions, is displaced from the vertical so that an accurate reading is not possible.
However, the upper post, for rainy season flow conditions, is vertical. The bridge provides a
good platform for current meter readings in the river and could be used for water/suspended
sediment sampling.
vi. River Luiche near Ujiji
A visit to the lower reaches of the Luiche delta, i.e. downstream from the Gauging Station
4B9, was made by road (RWD and KB) from Kigoma on 23-8-96. Whereas at the gauging
station the river occupies a single channel, in the onshore part of the delta, near Ujiji, the
channel splits into numerous, smaller distributaries. These are easily accessed from Kigoma
i.e. within about 20 minutes' drive. Visiting such a site during the dry season gives an
impression of channel widths and stabilities. The channels in this reach are largely developed
within thick lateritic soils which provide sediment to the channels through bank collapse. The
principal channels at the time of observation were 2-4 m broad. The waters flow at velocities
of the order of 1 m s-1, are very turbid due to suspended sediment, and are navigable by
canoe. In the wet season, the water escapes from the channels to inundate the delta plain. In
Although the sites examined would be suitable in terms of their proximity and ease of access
to Kigoma for sampling, gauging would be required since the 4B9 data would not be
appropriate for the very different channel geometries of this reach of the river. The site is in
an area used by many people for fishing and agriculture, so the possibility of semi-
permanently installed sampling equipment being damaged or stolen should not be overlooked.
vii. River Malagarasi - onshore at Gauging Station 4A9
This station, erected in 1976, is located within a wooded gorge section of the river, close to
the road which heads south to Uvinza from the Kigoma to Dar es Salaam road. An automatic
water level recorder at the site has not worked for several years. A cascade of six post gauges
is used to record water levels manually at progressively increasing stages. These are all in
good condition. A cableway for current metering spans the ca 120-m wide river at this point.
It appears to be in a reasonable state of repair but does not look to have had recent use.
Water/suspended sediment sampling in the centre of the river channel would require the use of
a boat. Two dug-out canoes were observed close to the lowest post gauge. It should be noted
that it is highly unlikely that this gauging station would be accessible by road from Kigoma
during the wet season.
viii. Luiche and Malagarasi deltas - offshore
The distance from Kigoma to the Luiche (visited by EHA, TBW, RWD and PP on 20-8-96 on
route to Mahale via the Malagarasi delta) is 9 km and the journey time by boat is ca one hour.
The mouth of the Luiche is characterised by low, relatively featureless topography when
observed from the lake. The entrance channel(s) is/are not obvious from offshore although the
location of what is believed to be the main channel was pointed out by M Chatta, Captain of
the R.V. `Echo'.
The visit (made on the way to Mahale) to the area off the mouth of the Malagarasi, was
relevant to all of the Special Studies. It marks firstly, an area of considerable deposition of
sediment - as amply demonstrated when the `Echo' grounded - not something one would
generally expect in the world's second deepest lake! [Section 5 comments on the somewhat
cavalier, and potentially dangerous, strategy (reverse thrust) adopted by Mr Chatta to
extricate ourselves.] However, the experience is likely to prove of value in alerting us to the
need for very shallow-draft craft for limnological work in this area. The trip also allowed
sampling of rooted vegetation and sediment, some seine-netting with local fishermen, and a
view of fringing reed-bed environments (all photographed).
The much larger delta of the Malagarasi, is 37 km from Kigoma and takes about two-and-a-
half hours by boat. It is interesting to note that the staff of the Mahale Mountains National
Park reported that the Malagarasi delta has prograded considerably over the past few years
causing the shallows to extend further offshore. Certainly the nearshore waters are accessible
only with a very shallow-draft boat such as the inflatable craft that we had at this time.
ix. Mahale Mountains National Park
General features
The visit (20 to 22-8-96) to the Mahale Mountains National Park was also of relevance to
each of the main Special Study co-ordinators, perhaps not least as the area is likely to
encompass some relatively unimpacted sites. The long boat journey (albeit not all done in
daylight) also gave us an opportunity to see a much greater section of the lake edge than
hitherto. While the enormous size of the lake was further impressed on us, it was encouraging
to identify areas quite close to Kigoma (and south of the port) that from a distance at least,
appeared to cover the full gamut of shoreline habitats (rock, sand, cobble, etc.).
The park is situated on the shore of Lake Tanganyika, some 150 km to the south of Kigoma.
It is allegedly the least visited National Park in the world attracting, on average, 350 visitors
per year. The journey from Kigoma was by means of the TAFIRI boat RV Echo for which the
travelling time would have been ca 8.5 hours had stops at the Luiche and Malagarasi deltas
not been made en route. Most tourists arrive by light aircraft which can land at the airstrip
located 10 minutes journey time from Mahale by boat. Up to 12-seater aircraft can land
during the May to early October period but aircraft landing is not possible during the wet
season. Tourist accommodation is available, principally in fixed tents. No electricity is
available for tourists but a generator provides power for the administration buildings. There
is no piped water supply, Lake Tanganyika providing for all needs. There is a permanent
Medical Assistant on site. The nearest Rural Health Centre is at Mgambo, one hour away by
boat. Persons who develop serious medical problems whilst visiting or working at Mahale
have to be air-lifted to Kigoma.
Mahale became a National Park in 1985 and has an area of 1, 613 km2. The confines of the
60- km long park extend 1.6 km into the lake. Thus an area of 96 km2 is `aquatic' and the
remainder terrestrial. The principal purpose of the visit by RWD was to assess potential
sites and facilities for sediment sampling and discharge monitoring, while the other members
of the mission were interested in the potentially unimpacted nature of the area from the
viewpoints of pollution and associated biodiversity. The onshore terrain is largely forested
and rises steeply from the narrow beach and coastal plain up the slopes of the Mahale
Mountains. Indeed, there is no agricultural activity within the park, so the draining rivers are
unimpacted and representative of undisturbed, naturally forested terrain. The dry season
extends from May to September. The wettest months of the wet season (October to April)
are November, December, March and April.
People met, major interests and facilities
A meeting was held on 21-8-96 between EHA, TBW, RWD and PP with the principal
officers of the Park i.e. Arui Hamidu Seki (Senior Park Warden In Charge), James Wakibara
(B.Sc., Park Ecologist), William Daniel (Park Warden In Charge of Law Enforcement) and
Frederick Malisa (Park Warden In Charge of Tourism and Community Conservation Service).
Visits were also made to various environments (river, lake beach, rocky cliff etc.) within the
park. Much of the meeting highlighted what is lacking here. There is no road to Mahale,
therefore there are no vehicles in the park. Five open boats are located on site, three of which
are in very poor condition. There are few ropes and no chains or safety rails. Thus, a few
11 outboard motors, ranging in size from 8 to 75 h.p. but only five of these are currently in
working condition. No maps, either old or contemporary, are available on site. Indeed, the
provision of up-to-date maps of the park is seen by the staff as a priority and could possibly
be achieved most efficiently using remote sensing methods. GPS equipment is not available.
Not surprisingly, the bathymetry of the offshore zone of the park is uncharted. The park
lacks any form of water or sediment sampling equipment and laboratory, and the library
holds little more than `Mahale: Study for the proposed Mahale Mountains National Park'
(1980) and reports on Chimpanzee behavioural studies carried out by Japanese researchers.
The few books on site belong to individual staff of the park. There is no telephone, and the
accommodation block which is 40 minutes to one hour away by boat, has no radio.
However, on the `plus' side, two radio sets are in working order, but these are located at the
park headquarters. The park office is equipped with a typewriter and paper, a photocopier,
one Macintosh computer (including Word 5.1 and Excel) and a laser printer. Even then,
however, the computer and printer belong to Dr Fukuda, a resident Japanese researcher
studying Chimpanzee behaviour. Allegedly, all of these items will be donated to the park
when his work is completed. All four senior Mahale staff have some computer knowledge.
According to the senior staff, no-one has worked on the sediments of the rivers which drain
into Lake Tanganyika through the park, nor has any geological or soil mapping and research
been carried out within its confines. Few rivers flow during the dry season but many do so
during the wet season - the principal water courses being from west to east: the Bilenge,
Myako, Mpika, Kasina, Sinsiba, Ntale, Kambele, Mubulungu, Lubugwe, Katimba and
Lumbye. The Lubugwe is the largest and, together with the Mubulungu and Katimba, flows
year-round. The catchment areas of the individual rivers are known with limited accuracy
from Figure 52 of the report quoted above. None of the rivers is gauged, but since there are
no roads in the park, access to the lower reaches of any potential river sites must be via boat
and/or on foot along the lake shore. It was not possible in the time available to assess the
practicalities of this, but it is stressed again that the along-shore length of the park is 60 km.
Prospects of links with the LTBP
If Mahale were to form a project base, a strategy parallel to that outlined above for Gombe
would be needed, i.e. as regards the `importing' of equipment, and the occasional deployment
of staff for short intensive study periods. Inter alia water sampling bottles, filtration
equipment (funnels, filter papers etc.) and a balance, would be needed as a minimum. It
would be both costly and impractical to establish permanent or semi-permanent gauging
stations on the streams and it is suggested that the method of dilution gauging would be the
most suitable. This would necessitate the provision of chemicals (NaCl) and a conductivity
meter. In order to understand the patterns of dispersal of sediment into the lake it would be
necessary to collect samples offshore. Equipment for both bottom and suspended sediment
sampling would therefore be needed, together with a reliable, seaworthy vessel. A high
frequency echo-sounder (200 kHz transmission frequency, for example) and GPS would
facilitate the bathymetric mapping of the offshore zone; in providing the first information on
the distribution of bottom substrates, this would underpin and complement the studies of
offshore biota.
All four staff, in particular Mr Wakibara, appeared very interested in the Lake Tanganyika
project, even though they see their main priority as the creation of an inventory of the aquatic
creatures in the offshore zone - that is, rather than pollution and sediment pollution research.
Hitherto, all of their work has been directed towards the terrestrial animals. Indeed, all the
tourists visit the park because of these. As a possible adjunct to extending their knowledge of
the offshore zone, the possibility of the staff being trained as diving instructors (and,
ultimately under water tour guides) was greeted with particular enthusiasm. Such training
could lead to the development of `aquatic tourism' in Mahale. The second priority of the
Mahale staff is the production of literature/guides for visitors.
2.2.19 Overview of institutions in Tanzania
Tanzanian Government Institutions are feeling the effects of the IMF Structural Adjustment
programmes. There are no funds for taking on new personnel, and compulsory redundancies
seem likely. Institutional reform seems necessary in the long run, given that every sector is
controlled by more than one government department; for example, the Fisheries Department
of the Ministry of Environment and Tourism, is responsible for fisheries development and
statistics, while the Tanzania Fisheries Research Institute (TAFIRI) also carries out fisheries
research. For wildlife, the Wildlife Department are responsible for game reserves and game
conservation areas, while the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) are responsible
for National Parks.
Mr Lazarus Nhwani of TAFIRI informed us of the transfer of TAFIRI to COSTEC, but
assured us that there would be no large-scale disruption of the activities and capability of
TAFIRI.
________________________________________________________________________
2.3
Zaire
Zaire features prominently on maps of the Lake Tanganyika catchment, not least since much
of the western shoreline abuts this country. Indeed, the Zairean land-water interface extends
over 814 km. However, owing to (potentially very interesting) steep terrain, much of this is
inaccessible from other than the lake itself. Civil unrest in certain northern areas, adds to
problems even where road or rail travel are possible. The largest river entering the lake from
this `coast' is the Lukuga, draining 27,216 km2, while the second largest inflow - the Lufuko -
is considerably smaller in draining some 4,400 km2. The following rivers drain land areas of
between 1,200 km2 and 1,600 km2: Lunangwa, Mulabosi, Lubaya, Lugumba and Mutambala.
A smaller `water course' - the Lubilaye has a catchment of 925 km2. Zaire owns most of the
lake area albeit only 15% more than that around Tanzania (i.e. 15,506 km2 cf 13,327 km2).
This stage of the mission (EHA, TBW, RWD and PP) focused on only one institution - the
Centre Recherche de la Hydrobiologique d'Uvira (CRH) - due to a somewhat unanticipated
long crossing of the lake from Kigoma to Uvira by commercial boat (the m.v.'Mwongozo').
This 'voyage' took from 19.30 h (the recommended boarding time although the vessel did not
leave the port until ca midnight on 14-8-96) to 9.00 h local i.e. Zaire time on 15-8-96. We
then used up a further 4_ hours negotiating immigration into Zaire, mainly because we had not
4 of us) must do so initially via Kinshasa. The group was well-compensated, however, by
the staff's keenness to be involved in the LTBP. The CRH Director had organised a
question-and-answer session between us and his staff as a whole, and separate, more focused
sessions, which continued well into 2 evenings (15 and 16-8-96). We also had time to visit
two albeit relatively small local river systems, and also overlook from some distance, the
Rusizi delta.
2.3.1 Centre Recherche de la Hydrobiologique d'Uvira
Background, general facilities
CRH was prominent on our itinerary from the outset in that it constitutes the main (only?)
freshwater research institute in the Lake Tanganyika region of Zaïre. It is well-known, in
having been set up some 40 years ago and funded until the early 1960's by the Belgian
Government. Since that time much less has been done due to lack of anything more than
subsistence funding. However, some (impressive) fish and fishery projects, managed and
paid for by the Japanese, have been published, and even now, some valiant efforts are being
made on the hydrological, chemical and biological fronts. All types of resources of the station
(buildings, equipment and people) deserve to be strengthened by the LTBP.
Accommodation was made available for us at the CRH `Guest House' which is comfortable,
provides good food and is two minutes walk from the laboratories. However, the cost per
person for the two night stay was US $165, which is much higher than we had been led to
believe. The nearest airport is 124 km north of Uvira at Bukavu; it has connecting flights to
Kinshasa and Nairobi.
After booking in and lunching at the `Guest House' on 15-8-96, we walked the approximately
150 m to tour CRH. This institute occupies a spacious and imposing building, originally built
by Greek settlers as a hotel, and converted for its present use in 1946/47 under the Belgians.
It offers much scope for development and additionally, would be ideally suited as an
environmental education centre. A list of the CRH library holdings has been lodged with the
LTBP Scientific Liaison Officer in Kigoma. The scientific operations of CRH are divided
amongst three departments: ecology, fisheries and hydrology. However, the main staff
research interests are, in order of priority, fish biology, fish statistics, fish taxonomy, ecology,
economics, sociology and hydrology. There are two workers with some practical expertise in
sedimentology.
Table: Principal scientific staff in the Biology Department C.R.H., Uvira.
I. Researchers
Main interests and whether a diver
Mboko Simakeita
Fish taxonomy and ecology. Diver.
Dr Nshombo
A @ A @
Mulimbwa Nsibula
Biology of pelagic fish.
Bajhonga Bishobibiri
Macroinvertebrates. Diver.
Kukiye Buda
A @
Amundala Shekaivi
Fish taxonomy and ecology. Diver.
Muzunaivi Dijasi
Fish taxonomy and curatorial work. Diver.
Kamalebo Mukungilwa
Epilithic algae and phytoplankton. Diver
II. Technicians
Bwebwa Diamani
Composition and abundance of zooplankton.
III. Laboratory Assistants
Matata Kitete
Curatorial work. Fish collector
Mbilize Ndalozibwa
Boat handler. Fish collector.
Barasta Napala
Fish collector.
Mangaiko Kisaro
Fish collector.
Kiza Kabale
Fish collector and biometric measurements.
Watuna Igundji
A @ A @
Bahane Byeragi
Aquaria management and fish collector.
Bulimwengu Kilindja
In charge of maps drawer.
According to Dr A Kwetuenda Menga (Dr. of Physical Limnology, Scientific director in
Charge and Administrative and Financial Director of CRH), curricula vitae of all the CRH
staff have been forwarded to the LTBP Scientific Liaison Officer in Kigoma and to NRI in
Chatham. All of the total of 101 staff (including all ranks) at CRH would be available for the
project and the Table above gives some details on the principal scientists and technicians in
CRH's Biology Department. A further four staff work in Kinshasa. The Director expressed
in the most positive of terms, a willingness for CRH to become a major LTBP site in Zaire.
An enthusiasm to have European scientists based for periods at CRH and for CRH staff to go
to Europe for training was also expressed. Following the tour, the mission held discussions in
an open `forum' organised by the Director.
The Uvira station have three derelict boats (not reviewed further here, but EHA has notes), an
inflatable dinghy, and a large ex purse-seiner, currently not operational, but possibly worth
repairing.
General forum: discussions with whole staff
The open forum (starting at 1300h) re-iterated firstly, what Special Studies within the LTBP
each of the mission members are co-ordinating; the co-ordinators had previously handed out
copies of the ToR of this visit (Appendix I), and copies of the summary (in French and
English) of the Baseline Review on the Special Studies i.e. 'Pollution and it effects on
biodiversity' and `Sediment pollution and its impacts on biodiversity' (Appendix III).
Secondly, this open session identified above all, an enthusiasm not found in so many Tropical
institutes. Here, for example a keenness was expressed for analysing one's own data; some
previous aid programmes had not allowed this. This session ended at ca 1730 h - well beyond
normal `closing time' for the institute - this demonstrating the keenness of the staff to be
involved in the LTBP. Indeed, a number of scientists joined us at the `Guest House' long into
the evening.
For the more detailed assessment of e.g. the laboratories, and discussions with CRH staff (16-
8-96), we divided into three groups: passing from the physical, through the chemical, to the
biological issues, RWD met the staff interested in sediments, sediment transport and
hydrology, while TBW discussed those with interests in analytical chemistry relating to
pollution, and studies on the lower aquatic organisms, while EHA and PP met with fish
biologists and fishery experts.
Discussions on hydrology, sedimentology and related resource issues
These discussions involved Kakogozo Bombi (Scientific Secretary of the Hydrology
Department), Mwenyemali Banamwezi Diedonné (Research Assistant in the Department of
Hydrology) together with Dr A Kwetuenda Menga. From the outset it was made clear that
very little work is, or has been done at CRH on sediments since most of the centre's work is
biological. When asked what the priority of the CRH staff would be if they could contribute
to the sediments programme of the project, the reply was a focus, in particular, on the
quantification of seasonal variations in river sediment discharge to Lake Tanganyika. All
relevant data held at CRH would be freely available for the project. The following is a
summary of the current level of knowledge of CRH staff on fluvial sediments:
(i) Mr Bombi measured suspended sediment concentrations in four small rivers to the south
of Uvira and has 2-3 months data (unpublished) from 1994.
(ii) Mr S Kimbadi (a chemist, who joined the meeting briefly) has worked on the physico-
chemical characteristics of 13 streams in the Uvira region [Kimbadi, S., Vandelannoote, A. and
Mbemba, M. (1995). The physico-chemical water characteristics of 13 tributaries of the
north-western part of Lake Tanganyika. In: Mölsä (Ed.), Abstracts, Symposium on Lake
Tanganyika Research, September 11-15, 1995, Kuopio, Finland, p. 109. Department of
Applied Zoology and Veterinary Science, University of Kuopio, Finland.]. The rivers
involved are the Kabimba, Maasa, Kijaga, Ruzozi, Kashekezi, Kavimvira, Katuta, Mulongwe,
Kakumba, Kambekulu, Kalimabenge, Sangeza and Kalongwe (all to the north of Burton Bay).
These were sampled monthly over a period of one year. Parameters measured included
dissolved oxygen, pH, water temperature, and the concentrations of N, P, major cations and
major anions. No data have been published on suspended sediment concentrations or water
discharge but, according to Peter Coveliers of Tauw Milieu, Antwerp (pers. comm.), the
sediment loads of these rivers have also been evaluated over the one-year study period. Three
groups of rivers were distinguished by the study: rivers rich in (bi)carbonate and chloride,
rivers rich in sulphate and rivers of intermediate water chemistry. According to Kimbadi et al,
the differences may be a reflection of the soil type, bedrock geology and of various kinds of
human activity, such as land use and pollution
(iii) Mr Banamwezi has an interest in the granulometry of fluvial bedload deposits,
principally sands, but has acquired little data to date.
(iv) There are no post-1960 data on the discharges of any of the Zairean rivers draining into
Lake Tanganyika.
If contemporary sediment loads are to be measured it is important to be able to compare these
with archive data. Moreover, the existence of archive data for a particular river, or rivers, may
help to determine the locations of study sites in Zaire. Prior to 1960 many of the rivers of
the former Belgian Congo were studied by Belgian researchers. Data on water discharge,
sediment concentrations and the variation of the level of Lake Tanganyika with time are
known to be held in the Royal Belgian Museum of Central Africa, Tervuren, Brussels. For
example, the Institut Royal Colonial Belge, Section des Science Techniques Mémoires (1952)
contains the Annuaire Hydrologique du Congo Belge et du Ruanda-Urundi for 1951 by E J
Devoy. A cursory glance at this volume (which was found lying on the floor of the CRH
Albertville (Kalemie) from 1846-1918. It is considered important for the LTBP that an
attempt is made to systematically analyse and collate the archive data which are held in
Tervuren. This task needs a scientist (possibly a member of the CRH staff) who is fluent in
French but who also has some knowledge of Flemish. It would probably need 3-4 months to
undertake this exercise.
An analysis of data on the outflow of Lake Tanganyika (the River Lukuga, at Kalemie), has
been undertaken by Laurent Bergonzini from the Laboratoire d'Hydrologie et de Géochimie
Isotopique, Université de Paris-sud, Bât 504, 91405 Orsay, Cedex, France, `Les écoulements
de la Lukuga à l'exutoire du lac Tanganyika'). This study has been prepared for publication.
Bergonzini should be contacted, as he may know of additional data from Zaire rivers relevant
to the sediment discharge studies.
Sedimentological equipment
There is no sedimentological laboratory at CRH. For sediment analysis the facilities of the
chemistry laboratory are shared. No sedimentological text books or books on
sedimentological techniques are available in the library. The following Table lists the few
equipment items held by CRH and used for sedimentological and related hydrological studies.
Electric pump for vacuum filtration of suspended sediments (Japanese manufacture). N.B.
no filter funnels or papers were in evidence.
Set of six stainless steel sieves (Japanese manufacture, mesh sizes: 4, 2, 1, 0.25, 0.125 and
0.063 mm plus pan) but no sieve shaker; sieving is carried out by hand.
`Furuno' (Japanese) echo-sounder plus transducer and chart paper, allegedly in working
order.
Current meter for river flow measuring is allegedly held at CRH. However, when the box
was opened surprise was expressed that it was missing.
STD (salinity-temperature-depth) probe (Japanese manufacture), allegedly in working
order, but has no battery because spares can be obtained only from Japan.
Items such as suspended and bottom sediment samplers are not available.
Discussions on water chemistry, micro-algae and related resource issues
At CRH, Uvira, TBW had in-depth discussions over chemical analytical work with firstly,
Sona Kimbadi (Chemist, with interests also in river and lake benthic invertebrates), Mavula
Mbemba (Nutritionist) and Kalala Tshibangu (Chemist). As in the `open forum' it was
heartening to learn about the wide variety of habitats that exist within approximately 15 km
either side of the institute, and could be investigated under the `Pollution', `Sediment
Pollution' and `Biodiversity' Special Studies. In addition to shore-line, inshore, offshore and
pelagic zones with their myriad types of bottom substrates, Uvira has a number of running
waters.
In the past - although the mission doubts to any significant extent for many years now - the
the lake; and nutrients. Organic matter and chlorophyll levels have not been measured. The
CRH scientists - in common with ourselves - recognised the need for particularly sensitive
instrumentation (e.g. probes) for assessing water quality characteristics in the very dilute
Lake Tanganyika. Though still in need of more basic standard equipment items such as
burettes, pipettes, flasks and beakers, the laboratories appear to be reasonably well-supplied
with these. However, without a reliable supply of reasonable `raw' water and power to run
the water distillation machine, the chances of keeping such glassware in the especially
`pristine' condition (bearing in mind the generally very low ion and nutrient status of the lake)
are slim indeed.
These discussions were notable for their frankness and thoroughly good-nature in response to
questions from TBW, the scientists raised certain fears - borne out of experience with
previous `aid programmes'. For example, some studies had `promised' involvement of the
Africans in all aspects of the work - not just the menial, unsophisticated and routines.
Equally stated prospects of reciprocal visits of e.g. European and African workers to each
other's country rarely materialised. Some programmes had even intimated the availability of
`sickness benefit' - but this too, never surfaced.
Although TBW was unable to comment on the last-mentioned issue, he asserted that it was
his intention that the LTBP Special Study on `Pollution and its effects on biodiversity' (of
which he is co-ordinator) would involve Africans in all aspects of the work; indeed, how
could one otherwise hope to develop a sustainable programme of monitoring/research? At the
same time, TBW stressed that his observations suggested very much that visits by e.g.
Zairoise to UK, should be for a few well-spaced short periods (ca 3-6 months), not for a
single period of say 2 or 3 years.
TBW talked secondly with Mukungilwa Kamalebo, because Mr Kamalebo was one of the
few Africans met during the mission who had interests in micro-algae. His situation is
somewhat depressing, however - although probably not an uncommon one. Far from
`complaining', he demonstrated how poorly-equipped he is for carrying out his main `duties'
- the investigation of epilithic algae, including the taxonomy. It transpires that he has a knife,
metal brush, bucket and small hand-net for his field-work. On the surface, this would appear
to be not so different from those studying the epilithon in UK. However, Mr Kamalebo has
no sampling bottles, nor does his project run to a boat and fuel. Thus, he is primarily
`confined' to working on sand and stones in the Uvira area. Even more serious is the very
poor microscope he is meant to use on these organisms: it dates from the `Belgian period'.
General equipment needed at CRH
During the relatively short tour of the laboratories (as against lengthy discussions with the
scientists round the table), few major equipment items were evident. What is more, most of
these were defunct, although for want of a reliable power supply, or small replacement parts
such as bulbs, fuses, batteries. Examples are tabulated below.
`Indesit' freezer-refrigerator'
`Van der Heyden' drying oven
`Aquarius' G5-18 water still
Equally, probes for measuring salinity, temperature and depth - used in Japanese-funded
(J.I.C.A.) projects, were not working - largely as a result of a lack of knowledge in electronics.
Many other, even more basic, resources are lacking. For example, owing to the present
situation in Burundi, and the fact that Uvira normally receives its electricity supplies from
there, the CRH is currently without mains electricity and will be for the foreseeable future;
the present generator is unreliable, inadequate and a new, heavy-duty one is an urgent top
priority. However, for the moment, fuel supplies are said to be adequate in Uvira. The
centre's present vehicle, a Toyota 4WD Land Cruiser is old, in poor condition and unreliable,
thus a replacement is seen as a priority to visit field sites. Since many of the potential field
sites close to Uvira are accessible only by narrow tracks, a motor-cycle is seen as necessary
to provide transport.
There is no Fax at CRH, yet this is essential for good communication with other laboratories
working on the project. The present photocopier is beyond repair; a replacement is required.
The two working ADDONICS PCs have inadequate memories for the needs of the project, so
new PCs - a minimum of one for each of the Special Studies: - and new software are required.
The laser printer does not work; this should either be repaired or replaced.
The centre does not have a good climatological measuring station, within air temperature and
rainfall only, being measured on a daily basis; ideally the CRH staff would like a recording
weather station capable of continuously monitoring wind velocity, sunshine and air pressure,
in addition to temperature and rainfall. The nearest meteorological stations to Uvira are at
Kalemie Airport and Bukavu. N. B. Mr Bombi has worked for three years on the statistical
analysis (using the software package STATISTICA) of meteorological data (FAO) from
Bujumbura, so has experience in this field.
2.3.2 NGOs
NOPTA - Nouvelles Orientations de la Peche sur le lac Tanganyika
This NGO was formed by fishing communities in the Uvira region in 1990, with the intention
of forming a professional association to represent their interests, and to develop initiatives to
protect the lake environment and fish populations.
The main concerns of NOPTA are that overfishing on Lates has led to their dissappearance
from the the north of the lake, and that the capture of juvenile clupeids is affecting that fishery
also. They propose a a suite of regulations, including a closed season on Lates fishing, banning
of mosquito beach seines, and use of a minimum mesh size of 14 mm.
NOPTA intends to support community-led initiatives to institute volunatary closed seasons, to
support fishers to substitute fishing activities in over-exploited localities for small-scale
livestock rearing.
Since their work started in 1993, they have concentrated on two sites MBOKO, and BARAKA,
both south of Uvira, and close to reserve/study areas proposed by CRH staff.
None identified
2.3.4 Potential study sites in Zaïre
In the time available to us in Uvira it was not possible to travel to many potential field sites.
However, the team was taken to visit the Kalimabenge River, within the town of Uvira, and
the Mulongwe River, 1 km to the north. Both of these rivers were included in the study of
Kimbadri referred to above. Eight years ago, during a short but high intensity rain storm,
these rivers experienced extreme erosion events resulting in the transport of vast quantities of
boulders; thus caused great destruction to houses, the severance of electricity lines and
resulted in at least 40 deaths. The Kalimabenge, as a consequence, has developed impressive
boulder levees at the margins of its channel.
The CRH staff also drew our attention to the Mutambala River as a possible field site
(although this site was not visited), which enters the lake in Burton Bay,. Allegedly, some
sediment discharge data are available for this river, the catchment of which is severely
deforestated. This could provide a contrast with a river draining a relatively unimpacted
catchment. Note that no pesticides or agrochemicals are used along the whole of the Zaire
shore nor are there chemical industries discharging into the lake.
In addition, a brief visit was made to see the wide expanses of the Ruzizi delta plain, some 5
km to the north of Uvira. Currently this is not a practicable field site owing to the situation
in Burundi. In this connection much of this area of Zaire is dominated by a large but allegedly
a well-managed, refugee camp. We also had a few minutes at a hot-spring with differentially
pigmented cyanobacteria in evidence.
It is not possible solely on the basis of this visit to recommend possible river sites for
sediment discharge monitoring. Guidance will be provided by the CRH staff but it seems
likely that some or all of the 13 sites studied previously (Kimbadi et al., 1995) are potentially
amongst the most suitable, together with the possibility of the River Mutambala. The
assessment and evaluation of the archive data at Tervuren (and potential data of Bergonzini)
should also facilitate the choice of sites.
2.3.5 Overview of institutions in Zaire
Observations in the laboratories suggested that many of the shortcomings of previous
programmes could be avoided in the new studies by ensuring the provision of 'consumables'
such as fixatives/preservatives, filter papers, reagents, batteries, spares and replacement parts
for various equipment items; other examples are basics including power generator and water
still. Personal computers and peripheral hard- and software are also sorely needed, and a
special request was made for literature of all types - papers, books, manuals, keys etc. We
also lent support to the view expressed during many of the discussion groups, that the region
should be resourced with sophisticated as well as simple apparatus - with the probable
exception of very expensive `one-off' instrumentation. Finally, we summarised the morning's
deliberations over training, by mentioning custom-designed workshops, short reciprocal visits
One of the few (only?) drawbacks of selecting CRH as a main centre for the LTBP (apart
from concerns over recent fighting in the north of the country), relates to the need to
re-furbish the roof of this building. Otherwise, there is an almost over-abundance of space.
Nevertheless, the Centre needs a substantial strengthening in resources by way of all manner
of equipment; for land-boat travel to study areas; for sampling: for sample
fixation/preservation; for physical, chemical and biological analyses, and for data handling
analysis; interpretation and reporting. All this as compared with some of the LTR sites, for
example.
___________________________________________________________________________
2.4 Zambia
Zambia ranks third on the basis of lake catchment area (13,906 km2), lake surface area (2,082
km2) and on length of Lake Tanganyika shoreline (210 km) - these values equating to
percentages of 5.2, 1.3 and 11. However, the country is very important to the LTBP as a
whole in having a comparative plethora of organisations concerned with the lake. It is
certainly the best-endowed of the 4 main lake countries in terms of institutions (and the
number visited by this mission). Examples are national parks encompassing riverine and
lacustrine environments, fisheries departments, the Environmental Council, National Council
for Scientific Research, the Environmental Education Programme and numerous university
departments. Indeed, this mission talked with 50 people representing over 15 institutions.
Moreover, Mpulungu houses one of the stations of LTR (FAO FINNIDA) with whom the
LTBP is closely involved also in e.g. Kigoma and Bujumbura. Discussions during this
mission and in the Inception Workshop suggest that the Zambian sector is less concerned
than the other countries with industrial pollution and heavy metals (but what of e.g. copper?).
This country is somewhat special too, in not having to contend with problems of ethnic
unrest and civil war.
Mr James Phiri, (Environmental Council of Zambia). National Co-ordinator for Zambia, is
unlikely to be involved at field- level in the Biodiversity Special Studies. He has deputised Ms
Musonda Mumba, currently studying in Sweden, to take responsibility for the administration of
the Zambian input into the Biodiversity Special Studies (a second person is deputised for the
Pollution/Sedimentation aspects). Ms Musonda is returning to Zambia via London, and could
be briefed on progress so far during her stopover.
2.4.1 Ministry of Energy and Water Development , Department of Water affairs
GP visited the district office in Mpulungu. The northern Regional Office in Kasama and the
National HQ in Lusaka.
District Office
District officer for Mpulungu is Mr Kasonde. His department is mainly involved in supply,
disposal and water rights. Previous lake level gauging station now responsibility of Fisheries.
Gave us literature referring to WASHE programme (Water, Sanitation and Health Education),
HQ on 8th Floor, INDECO House, Lusaka.
Between District and Regional levels of administration there is a provincial office in Mbala. It
was not possible to make an appointment here. The resident water engineer is Mr O.C.
Mwansa. Tel: Mbala 221310, 221690 (residence)
Regional Office
Met with Mr NGA'MBI. Water engineer. (Box 41025, Kasama) Office had some broken
data sets and some gauging results (see later at Lusaka HQ). Very little happening though, in
1990 all gauge readers laid off though we were assured that Lufubu still gauged and that
experienced officers were still available in the region. Mr Chama is the regional hydrological
officer in Kasama but he has been absent for a long period due to illness. Principal records
maintained in Lusaka but evidence that a visit to this office may uncover some interesting
data.
National HQ
Principal office in Mulungushi House, Box 50288, Lusaka. Tel: 252011. Meeting with Mr
Cheleshe - Senior Hydrologist. Mr Cheleshe was very helpful and was able to demonstrate
the records and for the Tanganyika catchment, these were limited and data since the early 90s
were very few. He gave the project a copy of the map showing all gauging stations of Zambia
(past and present). Those in the Tanganyika catchment are:
Station No.
Location
Records
7-005
Lunzua R.
1960s-1992
7-006
Lunzua R. (On weir)
1950s-present
7-750
Lufubu River (road crossing
1976 - 1990
c.20 km from outflow)
7-800
Lake level. Sumbu
Uncertain
7-010
Lake level. @fisheries
Continuos
Mpulungu
7-020
Station near Mbala
??
(uncertain)
7-021
(ditto)
??
GP suggests a strong role for Mr Cheleshe, possibly in collaboration of Mr Sichingabula at
the Dept. of Geography UNZA (see below).
All data and the laboratory facilities of the Department are held in their Water Quality Unit in
Sheki Sheki Road, Lusaka. Mrs Murelwa is head of operations in the Sheki Sheki Road office
but was unavailable nor was Mr Mutale (2nd in command but role not certain). GP was seen
by Mrs Florence Simbu. The data repository where (in theory) all flow records were being
computerised. Tanganyika catchment takes very low priority as it is both small and distant.
Looked at paper records for station 7-006 which looked like a good data set (due to presence
of hydroelectric company). Also the hard data needed to get rating curves existed and will
probably still apply. There is an amount of sediment data held on paper records (no
intention to computerise these) which could probably be traced.
Visited laboratory. Pretty basic but clearly the ability to do simple silt, dissolved solids and
suspended matter exists to give total transfers (though less sure about how bed loads can be
(or indeed are) measured). Visit was brief as staff were anxious to get home but lab seems to
have basics only.
2.4.2 Department of Fisheries
Headquarters, Chilanga
Only the director, Mr. H.G. Mudenda was contacted (BSc Biology & Chemistry, UNZA. MSc
Maths for Biologists Univ. Buckingham, U.K. Postgrad Cert. Limnol., Univ. Constanz,
Switzerland Postgrad Cert. Fisheries, Univ. Bergen, Norway). In a very useful meeting, Mr
Mudenda gave a comprehensive overview of the role and organisation of the Fisheries
Department, and some specific information on food, sport and ornamental fisheries, as well as
fisheries training programmes.
Organisation: Fisheries Dept. is divided into three sections: Fisheries (subdivided into
research and management units), Aquaculture (subdivided into research and extension &
development units) and Training.
It is evident that Zambian fisheries are very diverse and fragmented - there are a large number of
important lake, reservoir, river and wetland fisheries, often in remote areas far from logistic
support and good transport networks. FD attempts to monitor and manage the major fisheries
through its network of fishery centres. There are seven FD centres: Mpulungu (with a sub-
station at Nsumbu), Upper Zambezi (new), Lake Mweru, Lake Mweru wa Ntipa, Itezi tezi, Kafue
and Sinazongwe, on L. Kariba.
There is great difficulty in enforcing fisheries legislation with very limited resources. For this
reason, there is currently a move to support community-based fisheries management initiatives,
so that use of destructive fishing practices - the main concern - would be eliminated through
self-enforcement by stakeholders.
The most important of Zambia's fisheries are those on Lake Tanganyika, with recorded landings
of 12-15 000 t per year. Bangweulu swamps, with 10-11 000, provide the next most important
fishery, with the Zambian waters of Kariba also being important. Markets are along 'lines of
rail', where the Zambian population is concentrated.
As well as a food-fish industry, Fisheries Department also deal with the management of sport
and ornamental fishing trades.
Ornamental fish trade: There are two companies involved in the ornamental fishing trade on
L. Tanganyika, and FD are keen to encourage more, particularly in areas where collecting has
not yet taken place - some of the other lakes, rivers and swamps in Zambia. Legislation to
control introduction of exotic species exists, and this also covers internal movements of species
between lake/river catchments within Zambia. This has been drafted mainly with the aquaculture
industry in mind.
Mr Mudenda was not aware of any illegal aquarium export trade in Zambian waters of Lake
Tanganyika, although Dr Banister had mentioned that it may be extensive. Licences have not
been granted to short-term operators recently, as far as he is aware. It is standard practice to
look at companies' proposals and shareholders before granting an ornamental fish export
licence. A fee of K50 per fish exported is levied. It may be worth investigating a differential
payment scale by species, but this would require a thorough review of the industry - a task
which is being undertaken by Dr Banister.
Sport fishing: Sport fishing is a potentially important source of tourist revenue to Zambia.
Sport fishing is particularly popular on Lake Kariba (although most tour operators favour
Zimbabwe), and has potential in Nsumbu on Lake Tanganyika. Flights from Ndola to Kasaba
and Nkamba used to be fully booked by sport fishers, but this flight service is no longer regular,
and safari companies operating in the region have been experiencing difficulties. This may
change in now that Kasaba lodge is under new ownership.
Fisheries Department collect revenue from angling permits, while Wildlife Department gain
revenue from national park entry fees. There are no restrictions on sport-fishing permits at
present.
Training & Institutional requirements for L. Tanganyika: With respect to activities on Lake
Tanganyika, Mr Mudenda indicated that FD intended to maintain a staff of 2 or 3 research
officers at Mpulungu, despite financial pressures.Two or three fishery officers are expected to
retire in the next year, but it is hoped to replace them with graduates from the Fisheries Training
School.
Fishery research officers are normally recruited as graduates in biology from UNZA, while
technical and managerial staff are normally graduates of the Natural Resources Development
College, which offers a 3 year diploma in Fisheries. Course participants gain practical
experience with Fisheries Dept. and work on collection of fishery statistics and in fish culture
research stations.
Finance is not currently available to run the training programme for next year, however. There
has been a change in policy with regard to training, away from 'training for Fisheries Dept.' to
'training for the fisheries industry'. In the past, a qualification in fisheries meant automatic
employment by Fisheries Dept. This is no longer guaranteed.
In the meantime, fisheries training at UNZA seems likely to continue, now that a lecturer in
fisheries has been appointed (see UNZA section). Since 1989-90, there has been a decline in
the availability of overseas training, and there are no recent MSc graduates. A request for GEF
support for post-graduate level training in UK institutes was made.
The status of fishery department activities in Sumbu seems not to be clear. A number of
conflicting reports were received regarding the conservation status of the lake area adjacent to
the park, and the FD facilities within the park. A FD station at Kasaba Bay was constructed to
monitor the trade in ornamental fish, at a time when regular flights from Kasaba to Lusaka were
used by fish traders. This station was reported by Mr Mudenda to be in need of refurbishment,
and by P. Petit who was visiting the park at the time, to have been demolished! There is a
fisheries office at Nsumbu town, which could be used as a base to work in the area and Mr
Mudenda made a specific request that the project should consider refurbishment of this site.
Department of Fisheries, Mpulungu
The Fisheries Station at Mpulungu is small but well equipped. Equipment, computers and
library facilities seem well-maintained. As LTR winds down, there are a number of unoccupied
personel in evidence. The primary contraint to the effectiveness of the institution is the lack of
senior staff: there are only two Research Officers, trained to degree level. One is Director, and
has administrative duties, and the station has the dual function of a fisheries management and
statistics centre and a research laboratory. There appears to be a willingness and initiative to
undertake their own research with Zambian finance, as evidenced by a proposed gillnet sampling
programme, to take place early in 1997. This initiative should be supported.
Scientific personnel
2 research officers: Mr. Mwape, Director - limnology, Zooplankton taxonomy & biomass
estimation, fisheries statistics, Mr Godfrey Mlindi (who was on a fisheries management
workshop in Namibia at the time of our visit)
A third research officer, Mr Harris Phiri, is currently training in Japan but is due back in 1997.
Both research officers currently present are educated to degree level, but do not have research or
post-graduate qualifications.
13 research assistants - Chikoti (involved in Wildlife Conservation NGO), Chapola - only
trained diver.
The Mpulungu station have been collecting industrial fishing records since 1962. Most of these
data have been recently published by Martin Pearce, and all are available on the LTR database.
Records of artisanal and subsistence fishing activity is less comprehensive. An FAO- designed
catch assessment survey has been carried out since the early 1980s. Most fishing is by beach
seine and Chirimila net.
Additionally, scientific gillnet surveys have been carried out at approximately 10 year intervals in
the Sumbu region (Nkhamba Bay). The next survey is due to be carried out next year, when
fish community structure in this lightly fished area will be compared with that in the more
regularly fished Chituta Bay (SE arm). All past data is available on paper at Mpulungu, where
efforts are currently underway to computerize it. Apparently this was done by Martin Pearce in
'Parabase' but is not accessible, so is being repeated.
NB - No-one from Mpulungu was at the inception meeting, and none of the staff have met the
national coordinator.
Additional - While in Mpulungu, we had a very useful meeting with Dr T. Sato who is leading
the Japanese research group in studies of cichlid ecology and behaviour. Dr Sato suggested a
number of potential sites, both in Zambia and in Burundi and Zaire, where he had previously
worked. He also suggested a number of people to contact with reference to sampling techniques
and field identification of particular groups. The details will be reported in the Biodiversity
Special study work plan.
Laboratory facilities and equipment.
Fishing gear. Boat R/V Silver Shoal 2 small fibreglass/plank boats for catch-assessment
surveys + outboard motors. Two fleets of 13 multi-mesh gillnets, each 90x1.5m, mesh sizes
from 25-178 mm, recently purchased. Fished both at bottom and in mid-water. The nets are
hauled by hand from depths >100 m as there is no net-hauler on the R/V 'Silver Shoal'. 90 m
long liftnet for catamaran - used for catching shrimp for experimental fish feed. Balances10 kg
spring 5 kg spring 0.1g electronic top-pan 0.0001g electronic - hard to zero
Laboratory facilities
This site is situated 30 metres from the lake shore overlooking the bay, has a laboratory for
zooplankton work, one for limnological (chemical) analysis and one devoted to fish biology.
The roof of the building housing the 2 laboratories is of corrugated iron construction, but each
of the rooms have internal ceilings. The present layout and fittings of the limnology
laboratory are illustrated in Figure 3a below. It is reasonably well-equipped and maintained,
but with some reorganisation much better use could be made of the available space. As
examples, the only bench space available at present consists of a bench down the left-hand
wall and another forming a central island. Storage space for chemicals and glassware is
ventilation, result in the room being quite dusty. There is no fume cupboard or air-
conditioning unit, and nor (apparently) any First Aid or fire-fighting equipment.
The proposed modifications depicted in Figure 3b are designed to address the above
drawbacks. The construction of extra wall/peninsula benches will increase the available bench
area substantially and enable the `wet chemistry' operations to be separated from the
instrumental work. Thus, for example, the latter could be carried out on benches A and B
with the wet chemistry activities taking place on benches E and F. More electrical sockets
could be provided by running a power line down the centre of the peninsula bench (F) and by
putting double sockets along the wall benches. The shelving down the middle of bench F
could then be used for the reagents and samples etc., required for the limnological analyses.
The position of the fume cupboard and air-conditioning units are positioned as indicated
because of the availability of an outside wall. Air-conditioning would enable the louver
windows above the sink (C) to be replaced by sheet glass, thus reducing dust levels in the
laboratory significantly.
Owing to the on-going restructuring exercise in the Department of Fisheries and the
consequent financial constraints, the core activities of the Department, including routine
limnological analyses have had to be severely contained. The measurements presently being
made largely reflect the needs of the associated LTR programme. At present, limnological
analyses are conducted using `Hach' kits and the laboratory is reasonably well-equipped for
this type of analysis. However, as emphasised earlier in this report, such kits are best-suited
to field use, and it is recommended that the more traditional and sustainable methods should
be adopted for analyses carried out in the laboratory. This requires additional equipment,
such as glassware and chemicals for titrations, for example, and a list for the proposed LTBP
laboratories is currently being prepared. It is also recommended that the equipment items in
the following Table be purchased for the Mpulungu laboratories.
equipment
no.
chest freezer-storage of sample bottles
1
water still more recent model needed
1
magnetic stirrer/ hot plates
2
top-pan balances - 0.01g sensitivity
2
double-beam UV/Visible spectrophotometer and spares
1
fluorescence spectrophotometer
1
camera and attachments for microscopes
As appropriate
power stabiliser (present one only 1.5kVA)
1
a range of truly portable pH, DO, conductivity and temperature
2
probes
Library/Computer Room
The existing room, which acts as a library and computer work-space, would be greatly
improved by fitting sheet glass to the windows above the computers and installing air-
conditioning. Mpulungu is hot and dusty for much of the year, and at present the windows
are covered with blackout in an attempt to cut down dust levels. This results in an
uncomfortable working environment.
The room presently houses 4 computers, which are principally used for database and
spreadsheet work. An AST adv 6050 is for general use, while a DMA model is assigned to
each of the 3 laboratory groups. Although the staff appear to be satisfied with the capacity
and performance of these computers to date, it is recommended that a more powerful machine
(e.g. a Viglen `genie 486' or equivalent) be installed at Mpulungu (and at Kigoma); this would
allow a wider range of software to be operated and it would also give access to CD ROM-
based literature searches.
The library has a fairly comprehensive range of FAO and related documents but urgently
needs a broader range of reference and other books on e.g. algae, zooplankton, fisheries,
limnology and environmental pollutants.
Boats
The Fisheries Department boat - the RV `Silver Shoal' - was overhauled extensively by LTR
fairly recently, and so is now in basically good condition. Repairs included complete
replacement of the bottom plates and the fitting of new (and very powerful) engines.
Lifejackets are also available. However, the vessel still lacks a functional radio, cooking
facilities and a lavatory. For example, the room designed for the latter is currently full of nets
and other fishing gear. Also, the motorised winch does not work and the anchor has to be
lifted by hand. The sampling winch support is inadequate. These deficiencies need to be
remedied for the boat to be suitable for survey work.
The Department also has 3 usable `banana boats' (but these are old and in constant need of
repair), and 2 functional 15 hp outboard engines which we were assured are reasonably
reliable. It is recommended that an inflatable craft, with outboard motor be purchased; this
could be towed behind the `Silver Shoal' and be used for shallow inshore waters and river
estuaries.
Sumbu office
Dept. of Fisheries maintain an office in Sumbu village. These were very run down and would
need major refurbishment. The village does offer a good work opportunity as it is adjacent to
the national park and has most other requirements including decent jetty. Also a regular flight
service from Kasaba Bay to Lusaka (via Kasama) exists. A generator would be required.
Overall Assessment
The laboratory staff at Mpulungu have substantial analytical experience and have benefited in
both laboratory facilities and training from the LTR project. It is recommended that the
Fisheries laboratory be the principal focus for the limnological and biological measurements of
the Zambian waters of the Lake. The activities of the station as a whole are severely curtailed
by the present financial restrictions and it is proposed that the LTBP strengthens the
Department and draws as fully as possible on the experience of the present staff.
The proposed changes in laboratory layout and the additional facilities suggested will result
in a substantial increase in and a more effective use of bench space. It will also facilitate the
adoption of the more traditional methods of analysis that are recommended. As suggested by
this mission for other laboratories being strengthened for the LTBP, the re-introduction of the
more conventional chemical analytical methods will require training programmes. These could
be located at Mpulungu and/or Kigoma. However, the `Hach' kits should be retained for field
work and for cross-checking the results with the traditional laboratory-based methods.
2.4.3 Food and Drug Control Laboratory, Ministry of Health, Lusaka
Staff met, and laboratory infrastructure and activities
CF met Ms Margaret Sakala (Acting Head of the Laboratory) on 29-8-96 to explain the
nature of the LTBP and to discuss potential participation in the LTBP research and
monitoring programme. The laboratory is located at the University teaching Hospital in
Lusaka and comes under the Ministry of Health. An extensive review of health sector
priorities has recently been carried out by the Government, which is understood to have
confirmed the central role performed by this laboratory; as a result, no retrenchment of
activities is expected. The laboratory functions as the Public Analytical Laboratory and in
this capacity analyses a very wide range of samples for both the public and private sectors.
In addition to its routine monitoring work, the laboratory is involved in a number of major
national and international research programmes as indicated below:
i) Food Security Sub-Saharan Africa
This programme is essentially concerned with determining pesticide residue levels in staple
food crops such as maize, sorghum and cassava, and includes the supply of GC and HPLC
analytical equipment and, at the IAEA laboratories in Vienna, the training of staff and
technicians. It is supported by IAEA and FAO and involves Ethiopia, Niger, Senegal, Kenya,
Tanzania, and Zambia.
ii) Food Safety Programme
The FS programme is also supported by FAO and has been running since 1991. It is mainly
concerned with ensuring the safety of borehole water supplies, and involves both chemical
and bacteriological measurements. In-house training courses have been conducted at the
laboratory and FAO are currently considering setting up satellite laboratories in other areas of
the country.
The objective of the WA programme - which has been funded by NORAD since 1993 - is to
ensure that there are personnel trained in the chemical and bacteriological analysis of water
samples in hospital laboratories throughout the country. To this end, a number of in-house
training programmes have already taken place.
Laboratory facilities and equipment
The Food and Drug Laboratory complex consists of a number of individual laboratories
specialising in pesticides, drug enforcement, chemical and bacteriological analyses,
microbiology and forensic work. They are generally fairly well equipped and maintained, and
the equipment in the laboratories of relevance to the LTBP includes that itemised in the
following Table.
Pye 204 GC equipped with FID detector
Varian 3300 GC (1990 model) - currently used for drug enforcement work
Nitrogen and Hydrogen generators; so the laboratory is independent of bottled gas
supplies.
Spectrophotometers: Pye SP3-200 IR; Pye SP8-400 UV/VIS; and Corning Flame
Photometer - for Sodium and Potassium Analysis.
The delivery of a new GC (capillary column) instrument and an HPLC, as part of the
IAEA/FAO Food Security programme, is expected in early September 1996.
Staff and technical training
Ms Sakala took over as Acting-Head of the Food and Drug Laboratory earlier this year when
the previous Head, Mr Sinyianga retired. She is an experienced Chemist and enthusiastic
about her work. The level of training and experience of the other scientists and of the
Technical Staff appears to be good. Many of the staff have benefited from the various training
courses that they have attended both in the laboratory itself or overseas. Further training
needs, particularly for the analysis of pesticides using capillary columns, were discussed in
the light of possible collaboration with the LTBP.
Overall assessment
A generally well-equipped and very active laboratory staffed by experienced and enthusiastic
personnel. The laboratory is in a position to carry out pesticide analyses in fish tissues and
other biological materials collected as part of the LTBP. It is recommended that, in Zambia,
this is carried out in conjunction with the Livestock and Pest Research Centre, NCSR,
Chilanga. As these institutions have limited experience of the determination of pesticides in
matrices such as fish, some additional training in such analytical procedures will be needed.
2.4.4 Geological Survey Department
On 29-8-96 CF met Mr Fred Njamu (a Senior Geologist in the Prescribed Minerals and
Materials Commission) in the Geological Survey department with the view to ascertaining
what, if any, geological surveys had been done in the Zambian sector of the lake catchment.
The opportunity was also taken to explain the nature of the LTBP. Mr Njamu is familiar
with albeit few (see below) areas of Northern Province and expressed an interest in
participating in the project. His field experience would be invaluable in this respect.
Geological surveys, Northern Province
Relatively little attention appears to have been paid to the geology of this Province although
a few detailed reports on the area bordering the lake have been published. However, a copy
of the text of an, as yet, unpublished Geological Survey report by Mr Malik (`The Geology
of the Mbala area: an explanation of Degree sheets 0831C 1-'3. Report No 104) was obtained
from Mr Njamu. In addition and in conjunction with this report, Mr Njamu kindly provided
copies of the maps in question; these detail the geological characteristics of the lake
catchment. The shoreline covered by the maps extends from the Kalambo river on the
Zambia/Tanzania border through Mpulungu to Katoto on the western side of Mbete Bay. A
soil map for Zambia (Atlas Sheet No. 12 ) was also obtained. This is now out of print and no
copies were available at the Map Office in Lusaka. CF also obtained a copy of a paper
entitled `Geodynamic Evolution of the Bangweulu Block, Northern Zambia' presented at the
International Conference on the Proterozoic, in Lusaka (1983) by Lars Andersen and Rafael
Unrug. Finally, a geochemical study of northern Zambia is apparently about to be published
by Gencor, South Africa. Mr Njamu undertook to provide more details of this report.
2.4.5 National Council for Scientific Research (NCSR), Lusaka
An initial meeting was held on 26-8-96 at the NCSR Headquarters, on the role and activities
of the Council and on its potential collaboration with the `Pollution' and `Sedimentation'
Special Study components of the LTBP. Those present were CF, Mr Charles Mwamba
(Acting Secretary General) and Mrs Masinah Sibbuki (Research and Development Co-
ordinator). Terms of reference and the summaries of the Baseline Reviews on `Pollution' and
`Sediment Pollution' were circulated.
Institutional background and infrastructure
The NCSR was formed in 1970 as a mandatory Government department, but its effectiveness
appears to have declined significantly in recent years. For a variety of reasons it has failed to
raise the substantial funds needed for contract research and is consequently very dependant
upon annual Government grants, the size of which continue to decline. As a result, facilities
and equipment have generally not been well maintained and the retrenchment necessary as a
result of the financial restrictions has severely depleted the staff and reduced analytical
activities. Indeed, according to an article published in the Zambian Times during our visit,
NCSR faces the prospect of losing its annual Government grant altogether - and soon. Were
this to happen, the Council would be wholly dependent on external contracts. However the
sections of NCSR such as the Livestock and Pest Research Centre at Chilanga, and the
Radioisotopes Research Unit that have received external support through collaborative
NCSR comprises (i) the National Centre (i.e. HQ), situated some 10 km out of Lusaka on the
road to the International Airport, and (ii) two subsidiary centres located at Chilanga and
Kitwe respectively. The units associated with these centres are indicated in the following
Table.
Units in the National Centre
Food Technology Research Unit
Water Resource and Environmental Research Unit*
Radioisotope Research Unit*
Buildings and Industrial Research Unit
Information Services Unit
Technical Services Unit
Research and Development Unit
Subsidiary Centres
Livestock and Pest Research Centre*
Tree Improvement Research Centre
Units marked with * are those - according to Mr Mwamba and Ms Sibbuki - with a particular
interest in the LTBP.
As a result of these discussions, meetings were arranged with the heads of each of these 3
Units/Centres, and the outcomes of these discussions are detailed below.
I. Water Resources and Environmental Research Unit (WRERU)
A meeting was held on pollution and hydrological issues at the WRERU offices on 29-8-96.
Those present were CF, Ms C M Nsomi (Acting Head of Unit) and Ms M Sibbuki (Research
and Development Co-ordinator). During this discussion it became clear that in addition to the
restrictions placed on the Unit's research and monitoring activities by financial constraints,
the Unit has suffered badly as a result of the recent death of its Head.
The laboratory carries out bacteriological and chemical analyses of water samples for
Government Departments, the Environmental Council of Zambia (ECZ) and private
industries. The Unit is also currently participating in an environmental monitoring programme
concerned with heavy metal contamination in the Kafue River. The Unit houses two
reasonably sized laboratories, although much of the equipment appears dated and little used.
The Water Section has an instrument room containing an old, but functioning atomic
absorption (AA) instrument (Varian Techtron, Australia) with a wide range of lamps
including those for the determination of chromium, manganese, zinc, lead, iron, nickel, copper,
cobalt, cadmium, calcium and magnesium. The technician in charge, Mr Mutale, has over ten
If this unit were to carry out the measurements of heavy metal residues in fish and other
aquatic organisms as planned for the LTBP, its instrument would need to be ungraded, to
include a graphite furnace in order to achieve the necessary sensitivity. In view of the age of
the present AA instrument, this option, even if technically feasible, is not recommended.
II. Radioisotope Research Unit (RIRU)
Staff
An initial meeting between CF and Dr Matongo Nomai, Head of the Radioisotope Research
Unit was held in the office of Dr Nomai on 26-8-96 at which the background of the LTBP
was discussed. Copies of the Mission ToR and summaries of the Baseline Reviews on
`Pollution' and `Sediment Pollution' were given to Dr Nomai. A visit to the actual
Radioisotope Laboratory was not possible that afternoon, but it was toured on 29-8-96.
Those present in addition to CF and Dr Nomai were Dr M B Zaman, Mr Patrick Hayumbu
and Ms Sibbuki. The three principal scientists at RIRU have extensive analytical chemistry
experience and are very keen to contribute to the LTBP. Dr Nomai, the present Head of the
Unit, has been at NCSR since 1977. Patrick Hayumbu and Mohammad Zaman have 17 and
16 years' experience respectively of XRF and related analytical techniques. Curriculum vitae
were collected from each of these three scientists. Five technicians also work at the
laboratory, and these too, have considerable analytical experience.
The laboratories
The laboratory was constructed and set up in 1981 by the International Atomic Energy
Authority (IAEA) as part of a Technical Cooperation Project (TCP) which also involved
provision of equipment and extensive training of scientists and technicians. The TCP finished
in 1990, but the laboratory equipment is now supported by an IAEA Africa Region Nuclear
Instrument Maintenance Project
The staff have looked after the laboratory and the equipment very well. The principal
instrumentation consists of an X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) spectrometer with both source and
tube (Mo and Cr) excitation modes - although one of the amplifier channels needs repair - and
Fast Neutron Activation Analysis equipped with Cd, Am and F sources. The equipment has
been used extensively for geochemical, mineral and environmental analysis. At present the
staff have no experience of heavy metal determinations in fish and other biological tissues, but
provided with the necessary simple sample preparation facilities such as freeze-drying
equipment and sample homogenisers, they are well capable of carrying out such analyses. It
is, of course, possible that the heavy metal concentrations in fish tissues may be at or below
the limits of detection for their current equipment. The staff expressed the desire to upgrade
their present equipment by purchasing the total reflectance XRF accessory which would
substantially increase the range and sensitivity of their analyses. However this would cost in
the region of $10,000.
The existing XRF equipment would be especially useful for the analysis of LTBP sediment
results to `fingerprint' sediments - and potentially identify the source and movements of
sediments.
Library
Owing to the present financial difficulties at NCSR, subscriptions to analytical chemistry
journals have effectively ceased, and the Unit staff are finding it difficult to keep abreast of
developments in their field. This situation could be addressed at least in part, by providing
the Unit with some modern instrumental texts and facilities for computer literature searches.
Overall Assessment
The RIRU is well-equipped, well-run and the staff have a wealth of analytical experience. It is
strongly recommended that the Unit is given the opportunity of working with the LTBP,
particularly on the elemental analysis of sediments and possibly also on the determination of
heavy metals in e.g. fish tissues.
III. Livestock and Pest Research Centre, Chilanga (LPRC)
Staff and overall activities
A meeting was held with Mr Kaposhe (Head of LPRC) at the Pamodzi Hotel, Lusaka on 30-
8-96 to explain the nature and scope of the LTBP and to explore the potential for pesticide
analyses being carried out at LPRC.
The following Table indicates the principal staff and their research interests.
Scientific Staff
Mr C K M Kaposhi, Head of Centre
Dr P M Mwangala, Head, Pesticide Toxicology Section
Mr Mundia, Pesticide Analysis
Mr Mondo, Entomology
Mr Kabalo, Entomology
Technical (pesticide analysis)
Mr Reuben Banda (soon retiring)
Mr Cephas Mangoye
A cv was obtained from Mr Kaposhi, and he promised to provide CF with the corresponding
documents for the other scientific staff.
The Centre is comprised of the following sections: Veterinary diseases, Nutrition,
Reproductive Physiology, Mycotoxicology, Pesticide Toxicology and Vector Biology. There
is also a Centre farm. Although the Centre has also suffered from the financial restrictions
affecting NCSR as a whole, it was also supported by an IAEA Technical Cooperation Project
from 1987-1990. The Centre currently has IAEA research contracts on (i) stability of
acaricides (1991-1996), and (ii) the persistence of pesticides (e.g. Endosulphan and Lindane -
Centre is also investigating natural sources of pesticides from plants, and it provides a
pesticide analytical service under contract to the Livestock Service Co-operative Society
Laboratory Equipment
Support for equipment maintenance is provided via the IAEA research contracts. Lack of
time prevented a visit to the laboratory, but Dr Kaposhi indicated that the instruments listed
in the following Table were available.
Pye-Unicam PU 4500 Packed and Capillary Column Gas-Chromatograph (GC) equipped
with FID and ECD detectors
Pye-Unicam PU 4811 Computing Integrator (print lead needs replacing)
Pye 204 Packed Column (GC) with FID/ECD detectors
Liquid Scintillation Counter
Biological Oxidiser
Perkin-Elmer HPLC Series 100 (tubing between pump and detector needs replacing)
Hydrogen and Nitrogen Generators
Mr Kaposhi undertook to indicate what additional equipment and accessories would be
required were they to be involved in the analysis of fish and sediment samples from the
LTBP.
Overall Assessment
The LPRC pesticide laboratories would appear to reasonably well equipped and the staff
clearly have substantial experience of pesticide analysis as part of IAEA and other research
contracts. The Centre would appear to be worth supporting and it is recommended that the
laboratory should be involved in the LTBP's determination of pesticide levels in biological
samples and in sediments. Some ancillary equipment, accessories and consumables (together
with some training) for these analyses will be needed to ensure that results are in harmony
with those from other laboratories.
2.4.6 University of Zambia (UNZA), Lusaka
A number of visits to various departments in the School of Natural Sciences and in the School
of Mines at the University of Zambia were made by EHA, CF and GP on 27 and 28-8-96.
CF met with Professor D Theo, (Dean, Natural Sciences) and Dr E H Jere, (Dean, Mines) -
explaining the background and scope of the LTBP, and exploring the potential for these
Schools involvement in the LTBP. At each of the departmental meetings also, the nature and
objectives of the LTBP were explained, and copies of the ToR and the appropriate summaries
of the Baseline Reviews were circulated. A visit to assess the UNZA library resources was
also made by EHA.
Faculty of Natural Sciences
Meeting with the faculty Dean (Prof. Theo) and informed him about the project. He offered
full co-operation.
Department of Biology
There are four research staff in UNZA Biology Dept. with interests in population ecology,
biodiversity and fisheries. There are the head of department Professor Chitumayo (Forests
and biodiversity) , Dr Chabwera (ex Deputy-Director of Fisheries & Wildlife Dept,
population ecologist and wetlands biodiversity specialist), Dr Mbata (attended Inception
Workshop: insect population dynamics and systematics), Dr. Joseph Munyandarero
(fisheries and fish ecology, with experience of L. Tanganyika - CV collected).
Their major role is likely to be in the supervision of student research projects, whose fieldwork
could be carried out in areas of interest to the project. The department runs undergraduate and
master's degrees in ecology, with specialisation in conservation ,wildlife management and
biodiversity. The university appears to be adequately resourced for this type of activity, but
lacks money to send students into the field for their projects. The GEF could assist with this
type of activity.
Dr Joseph Munyandarero has been appointed to a lectureship in the Fisheries Department. He
is a highly qualified scientist, with a PhD from ENSA, Toulouse. He intends to develop a
research programme in fisheries that could include L. Tanganyika, and will be teaching a
fisheries course within the ecology degree. At present there is no fisheries degree in Zambia,
only a diploma course run by the Zambian Natural Resources Development College, aimed at
technical staff. Senior fisheries staff are mostly ecologists who have taken a short fisheries
course, or have gone on to do fisheries training overseas. One of the wider objectives of the
GEF project could be to provide UNZA with some support to establish a fisheries BSc - this is
one of their objectives.
Postgraduate training is also available in UNZA. An MSc in Biosystematics and Ecology is
run, with options in fisheries, forest ecology and rangeland management. This takes the form
of one-year taught courses and one year's research project.
The NRDC is run jointly by the university and by the Ministry of Agriculture, and recieves
SADC funding.
Action: Consider support for curriculum development in Fisheries for new fisheries degree,
to take the form of advising on, and assisting with field-based training, perhaps on Lake
Tanganyika. (EA/MRAG to develop proposal in consultation with Dr Munyandarero).
UNZA to be kept informed of work-plans, and asked to participate as required.
Department of Chemistry
Staff and teaching/research
The staff of this Department are indicated in the following Table.
Analytical Chemistry: Professor Cernak; Dr Mainga and Mr Sinyianga (ex-Head of Food
and Drug Laboratory, Ministry of Health)
Organic Chemistry: Dr Phiri, Dr Prakash and Dr Singh
Biochemistry: Mr Mbewe
Professor Kiremeri, the Head of Department, was away from the University at the time of
the visit, so Professor James Cernak, an analytical chemist, introduced the Department and its
teaching and research activities. The department runs a conventional 4-year BSc programme
with entry to the course being appropriate grades at School Certificate level. A two-year MSc
programme involves course work and lectures during the first year and a research project in
the second year. There are currently 4 Ph.D students studying overseas - including Derek
Chewe, who worked with CF at UEA in the early stages of Dr Chewe's Ph.D and is soon due
to return to the Department.
Laboratory facilities and equipment
A tour of the teaching and research laboratories suggested that the financial restrictions
affecting the University was severely curtailing laboratory activities. Much of the equipment
is clearly quite dated, and there were few signs of activity at the time of our visit. It appears
that the department has been unable to attract any significant outside funding in the form of
research contracts, and is thus largely relying on central University funds. The major items of
equipment noticed on a tour of the laboratories are as indicated in the following Table.
Equipment Item
Atomic Absorption Spectrometer Varian 1000 (reasonable range of lamps)
Pye 204 GC (FID, ECD, Conductivity detectors)
Polarograph (Dropping mercury Electrode)
Pye-Unicam SP8-400 UV/VIS spectrophotometer
Pye-Unicam SP400 UV/VIS spectrophotometer
Perkin-Elmer 297 Infra-Red spectrophotometer
Shimadzu UV 120-02 Spectrophotometer
HPLC-not functioning
MSE high speed centrifuge
Overall Assessment
Professor Cernak was very keen to participate in the LTBP and offered to produce proposals
for MSc programmes that would address issues of importance to this project. However, he
appears to be the only member of staff who has a primary interest in analytical chemistry and
as he has already reached retirement age, the sustainability of the research programmes must
be carefully assessed. Also, in view of the age and general condition of the laboratories and
equipment, and the apparent dearth of substantial and ongoing research programmes, it seems
likely that a considerable financial investment would need to be made by the LTBP to raise
the analytical capacity of the Department to an appropriate level; we suggest therefore, that
this is not recommended. Professor Cernak indicated that the Environmental Council of
Zambia (ECZ) is expecting a number of new pieces of equipment, which will probably be
installed at the University, but the timescale of this programme is not yet clear.
Department of Geography
A sedimentolgist (Henry Sichingabula) has published on sediment loads in the Zambesi. He
knows, and has worked with Mr Chileshe in the Department of Water affairs. There seems
to be a good chance of a linkup here with University and easy access to records in the Dept.
of Water affairs.
The Geography department has natural resource management programmes, covering
environment and development and natural resource economics. Dr Mashalete was suggested
as a contact, but it was not possible to follow up on this.
Departments of Geology and Metallurgy/Mineral Processing
Staff and teaching/research
The Departments of Geology and that of Metallurgy and Mineral Processing together with
the Department of Mining Engineering, constitute the School of Mines. This is housed in a
distinctive and well-kept complex on the university campus. Meetings were held with Dr
Jere, Dr Fred Kamona (Head, Department of Geology), and Dr Simukanga (Head,
Department of Metallurgy and Mineral Processing) at which the nature of the LTBP was
explained and the opportunities for the Departments to be involved in it were discussed. The
School is very keen to be involved - especially in the analytical programme.
The senior technical staff (all very experienced technicians) are responsible for the AAS,
XRD and XRF equipment and for carrying out the analyses. These staff are indicated in the
following Table.
staff
grade
Mrs Sichilima
Analyst
Mr Kasengele
Senior technician
Mr Mkandawire
Senior technician
Mr Musonde
Senior technician (XRF and XRD)
This School is clearly a very active part of the University and is vigorously involved in
research and consultancy work. There appears to be a considerable demand for students from
the School at both undergraduate and postgraduate level. All students entering the School do
so at Second Year level, having spent their first year in the School of Natural Sciences. The
distribution of students between the three Departments of the School is done on a quota
system, which reflects the national demand for students in the various sectors. The quota for
geology students has recently been increased in response to the increased exploration activity
in the country.
The School, of course, has very strong links with the mining industry and many of its
research activities are focused on mineral analysis and exploration. The identification of
sources of groundwater and the determination of the water quality of such reservoirs on
behalf of industrial and agricultural users is a significant part of the contract research activities
of the School. A Unit is currently being established which will focus mainly on environmental
and general pollution issues relating to mining activities. The school is also currently
participating in a wide-ranging interdisciplinary project supported by Swedish Aid (SIDA);
this is concerned with the impacts of the rapidly spreading water hyacinth (Eichhornia
crassipes) on the Kafue River.
Laboratory facilities and equipment
The analytical laboratories in the School were generally reasonably well-equipped and were
being fully used at the time of the visit. The wet chemical laboratory houses two Atomic
Absorption Spectrophotometers, one of which is equipped with a graphite furnace. The
latter, owing to its lower limits of detection, would be particularly suitable for the analysis of
heavy metals in fish and other biological samples - as envisaged by the LTBP. The laboratory
is also equipped with a good range of lamps for the instruments and both instruments are
presently functioning well. Other instruments include those itemised in the following
Table.
Carbon and Sulphur monitor
Muffle furnace
UV/Visible Spectrophotometer Lambda 1A
Philips 1410 X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Spectrophotometer
Philips X-Ray Diffraction (XRD)
Apart from a minor problem with one of the XRD scintillation tubes, the equipment is
working well and was in use at the time of the visit. This equipment would also be an asset to
the Lake Tanganyika project.
Overall Assessment
The School is relatively well-equipped to carry out heavy metal analyses on biological and
sediment samples using AAS techniques. Its XRF and XRD equipment could also play a
very useful role in the analysis and characterisation of sediment samples. It is recommended
that the sediment samples are analysed in conjunction with the Radioisotope Research Unit at
NCSR as part of an international inter-laboratory quality control programme.
Department of Physics (Environmental Resource Centre)
Staff and teaching/research and facilities
A meeting was held in the Environmental Resource Centre (ERC), Department of Physics, on
present were CF, Dr S M Ngwira (Head, Department of Physics) and Professor P C R Jain
(Manager, ERC).
The Centre was inaugurated earlier this year and is supported by Swedish Aid (SIDA). The
principal interests of the Centre are climatic studies, renewable energy and environmental
physics. Although the Centre has only recently opened, it already has a reasonable selection
of journals and has already established links with similar Centres in other countries, (including
the Climatic Research Centre at UEA). The Centre also has a computer room/laboratory
which is used by staff and students for the analysis of meteorological, climatic and other data.
In this connection, it has received support from the World Meteorological Organisation
(WMO) and a senior WMO expert has recently been assisting the ERC staff to transfer their
climatic and other information onto databases.
Professor Jain is very keen for the Centre to be involved in the LTBP. He has a particular
interest in rainfall and temperature patterns in Zambia and nearby countries, and is currently
monitoring these factors at 32 locations in Zambia, some of which are apparently in the
catchment area of Lake Tanganyika. He offered to extract the information that his database
holds on the latter locations. The importance of rainfall as a source of nutrients/pollutants
into Lake Tanganyika was discussed at length, and the Centre staff are keen to be involved in
a joint research programme of this nature. Indeed, such a project might usefully form the basis
of MSc or Ph.D studies for students or members of staff of the Centre - possibly in
conjunction with the Climatic Research Unit at UEA.
Overall Assessment
The centre is small but well-equipped and has experienced and enthusiastic staff. Their
inputs, particularly regarding recent and ongoing rainfall and temperature patterns in the lake
area, would be of considerable benefit to the `Pollution' and `Sediment Pollution' aspects of
the LTBP. Such data are very hard to come by. Professor Jain agreed to indicate what
equipment, additional facilities and further training would be required to move this forward.
2.4.7 Potential study sites in Zambia
The Japanese team are constructing a laboratory with dormitory accomodation in Mpulungu,
and will have a presence from September to March. They have indicated that they would
welcome use of their facilities by the GEF project outside this period.
One of the major logistic contraints for biodiversity survey activities in Zambian waters is the
number of crocodiles. Japanese divers believe that the numbers of crocodiles have been
increasing, and sites must be carefully assessed before dives are made.
Sumbu National Park
Sumbu National Park is a mainly low-lying, heavily wooded park land with significant
numbers of large mammals including lion, elephant and buffalo. The park extends around 60
km inland and much of the southern boundary of the park is the Lufubu River. More
significantly for the Project the park includes 80 km of the lake shore and extends 1.6 km into
the lake giving approximately 128 km2 of underwater national park. This figure is due to be
Nkamba Bay as national park contributing an approximate additional 15 km2. The park
appears to be well policed and our tip along the shoreline showed no sign of any human
activity (apart from at the lodges). It could be therefore defined as a pristine site. We were
also approached by a park ranger (in one of the lodge speedboats) to explain our presence.
Fisheries department maintains offices in Sumbu village on the northern boundary of the park.
Fisheries Department of Zambia have expressed a wish to refurbish these offices and make
this a base for activities. GP & CF visited these and found them to be in poor state of repair
but not beyond hope. The proximity of the airstrip at Kasaba Lodge makes this place
reasonably accessible though access to Kasaba would still involve a 25 km boat trip. Ideally a
base near the lodge would be preferable. Sumbu is a 7-8 hour trip from Mpulungu on the RV
Silver Shoal.
GP and CF met with the Deputy warden of Sumbu Game Reserve, Thomas Mito. Clearly
administration of National Parks has strong cross-over with security and military activities.
When dealing with Parks it is vital to have necessary clearances. Once bona fides established
then highly co-operative.
Lufubu River
As one of the main rivers entiering the Lake the Lufubu is worth of attention. There are
hstorical records for guaging station 7-750 approx 15 km inland from the outflow of the river
and it may prove worthwhile to re-establish gauging activities at this point. There is also an
established park rangers encampment on the north side of the river very close to the outfow
which would make short periods of intensive work possible.
Due to the fact that good bathymetic charts exist for the Zambia part of the lake it may be
sensible to develop models of riverine inflow in this region wher it is more straightforward to
compare modelled and in situ data.
There is great interest in working in this area by other research teams (Japanese, SIAL). The
southern part of the lake is thought to have particularly diverse fish communities, and this area
is relatively unimpacted by human activities. A potential base for activities is Kasanga.
Tanzania/Zambia border area
Kasanga is a small picturesque village 3-4 hours by road (dry season only) from
Sumbawanga. The descent to Kasanga from the high, grassland plateau around Sumbawanga
is steep, through Miombo woodland. Farming and charcoal-burning activities are not
intensive.
Kasanga is the last port of call for the Liemba before reaching Zambian waters. It is around 1.5
hrs journey, but there are also many local craft plying this route. A passage costs less than $5,
but the hire on an entire boat with 8.5 hp engine costs $100 for a 3.5 hour trip. Customs
officials and the village head were very friendly and welcome visitors. They are used to
dealing with tourists, as quite large numbers come there to see the Kalambo Falls. There are
the usual small shops, restaurants and guesthouses. There appears to be little fishing activity
and 'border-related activities' can be assumed to constitute an important source of livelihood for
many inhabitants.
The only visible potential impacts to biodiversity are: i) Localized effects of inshore fishing ii)
Localized deforestation iii) Exploitation of aquarium fishes (Mr Toby Weir has an operational
base just south of Kasanga iv) There is a harbour development project funded by NORAD
that aims to increase the use of Kasanga as a port for goods moving in and out of Southern
Tanzania. The road to Sumbawanga may be upgraded as part of this infrastructure
development project. At present, it is only passable in the dry season.
Lunzua River
The Lunzua River enters the lake close to Mpulungu and was flowing strongly during the
visit (in the dry season). A hydroelectric scheme exists further up the river and it was not
clear whether this high flow is due to water impoundment or perhaps due to a well protected
catchment. Further investigation of the gauging station at the hydroelectric station
recommended.
2.4.8 Overview of institutions in Zambia
The Zambia Government Institutions are aslo feeling a very tight squeeze on finances There
are no funds for taking on new personnel, and compulsory redundancies are occuring or have
recently occured. Restructuring of Government reponsibilites is occuring and roles and
responsibilites seem confusing for the outsider.
The Environmental Council of Zambia (ECZ) is clearly assuming a pivotal role in
Environmental matters in Zambia - the project is well placed in this respect with the Zambian
Narional Co-ordinator (James Phiri) being the director of ECZ.
3. SPECIAL STUDIES: GENERAL STRATEGIES, LOGISTICS, STUDY SITES AND
WORK PLANS
This section deals with important and far-reaching consequences for the execution of the
Special Studies, of a number of the issues and developments discussed throughout this report.
At this stage the Section must be viewed as a preliminary account of the subjects suggested in
the title.
The Special Study Co-ordinators intend to concentrate in the first 12 months or so of the
practical phase of the Special Studies (sampling, sample and data analysis) on a
comprehensive training programme for scientists, technicians, field operatives - and associated
administrators. In this connection, it is recommended that just 4 centres (one in each country)
around the lake be established in the first instance. `Established' means resourcing by way of
providing new, or re-furbishing existing, buildings; installing equipment; and carrying out the
training programmes indicated above. Section 2 details what is needed, and Section 6
summarises the resources recommended by this mission.
Whether, for example, the `first' centre in Zaire is Uvira or Kalemie, is relatively immaterial;
the main point is that the project has a much greater chance of achieving its objectives (on
time) if each country concentrates on developing (`getting up and running') one laboratory
site, before attempting other areas. It is envisaged that during this period a considerable
number of regional field and laboratory training workshops, and associated discussion groups
and meetings will be held. Kigoma is almost certainly the best centre for these purposes and
particularly as the lakeside TAFIRI complex (also well-serviced with regard to
communications, and well-resourced as far as office and laboratory space are concerned) is
just 5 minutes' walk from the SLO's residence, and in similarly easy reach of small hotels.
Naturally, regardless of distance travelled, visitors to such meetings would need to be fully re-
munerated. More importantly, all of the members of the present mission are familiar with the
countryside and lake shore areas around Kigoma, and have noted the training opportunities
presented by habitats ranging from mud, through silt, sand, pebble, cobble, boulder and cliff
environments within a few kilometres of this centre. Such considerations do not, however,
rule out the occasional holding of meetings/workshops in Mpulungu, Uvira/Kalemie and
(hopefully) Bujumbura. Indeed, such forays will constitute an essential component of this
regional project, bearing in mind that we are recommending that all scientists, regardless of
nationality, use comparable methods, and are made aware of each others situations regarding
laboratory and field resources and lacustrine habitats.
The mission has observed at virtually all of the institutions visited, an enthusiasm not found
in many Tropical institutes. A keenness was expressed in analysing one's own data; some
previous aid programmes had not allowed this. There were other issues too, that touched on
the concern that the nationals' interests should always be borne in mind. Many of the
shortcomings of previous programmes could be avoided in the new studies by ensuring the
provision of 'consumables' such as fixatives/preservatives, filter papers, reagents, batteries,
spares and replacement parts for various equipment items; other examples are basics including
power generators and water stills. P/c and peripheral hard- and software are also sorely
needed, and numerous people enquired about literature of all types, e.g. papers, books,
workshops, short reciprocal visits between UK and African scientists, and supervision of
studies to at least MSc level will feature prominently in the LTBP.
In spite of these very encouraging prospects, the mission is very aware of the incredible
challenge that this project presents: for example, getting things going and evolving a
sustainable programme of scientific study - even with adequate resources - on a system that
is characterised by organism abundances and ion concentrations near the current limits of
detectability! The programme must also achieve as wide a scope of activities as possible
from the outset in order to establish which aspects/determinands are the most appropriate to
maintain in the long-term i.e. post-GEF. The fact that with very few exceptions so many
previous programmes (e.g. NORAD, Belgian initiatives, FAO FINNIDA) have foundered
very soon after 'official' funding has ceased, is a sobering thought: we should examine why we
think that this project can reverse this trend.
3.1 Special Study on 'Pollution and its effects on biodiversity'
Difficulties encountered during this mission alone, suggest that the current plans for the Special
Study on 'Pollution and its effects on biodiversity', be revised by assuming that essentially, no
large vessel (that is, neither the 'Explorer' nor the 'Echo') will be available; in the case of the
former the political situation in Burundi is dominating events, while the issues discussed in
Section 5 explain why the 'Echo' cannot be relied upon. For this Special Study, therefore,
inflatable craft will be the main means of reaching sampling sites - including reasonably deep
water locations representative of 'pelagic' conditions. Preliminary discussions between the
members of the mission and regional scientists, suggest that such a strategy would not seriously
affect the programme, although some of the gear that is likely to be needed even for inshore and
littoral work could be heavy and/or bulky. Even the most casual observations also suggest that a
considerable corpus of diving expertise will be required to assess and sample many habitats.
This has consequences for training programmes and safety management.
It would be unfair, and probably inappropriate to burden the Scientific Liaison Officer with all
responsibilities of the extremely diverse day-to-day activities envisaged for the pollution and
pollution-related biodiversity programmes; these should be the ultimate responsibility of the
Special Study co-ordinators, their consultants and other scientists that they wish to place in the
field. The SLO should nevertheless, be charged with facilitating the scientists' requirements. In
order to enhance the successful completion of the scientific work, an absolutely essential feature
of this strategy is the more or less `permanent' establishment of two graduates from IFE/UEA
in the region.
The co-ordinator of the `Pollution' Special Study at least, is approaching the work with a very
open mind regarding the relationship between pollution and biodiversity. Far from consistently
effecting a decrease in biodiversity, pockets of pollution may well provide new, or extend
existing, spectra of physical and chemical situations and thus opportunities for invasion by 'new'
species; if so, this could be interpreted as pollution extending the variety of organisms in the
lake. Alternatively, the unlikely universal perturbation of the lake's habitats might well result in
an overall decline in species numbers. In this connection we need to consider carefully what
constitutes a 'desirable' species as against an 'undesirable organism. Regardless of the actual
relationship between pollution and species richness etc., our main pre-occupation must be the
generating of relevant and robust data that will identify the nature (e.g. positive or negative
correlation) and strength of the relationship.
On a more practical front, `field operatives' will need to be trained in the collection and initial
processing (e.g. filtration and fixation/preservation), of samples for all three main studies i.e.
'Pollution', 'Sediment Pollution' and 'Biodiversity'. Without this, we cannot hope to secure the
arrays on the other; these are crucial to establishing whether, and in what manner, the one is
affecting the other. Also, the potentially enormous distances between sampling stations/study
sites will generally rule out the 'luxury' of the pollution scientists, for example, being able to
concentrate solely on their 'own' work.
Particularly in the early stages (including training) of the field and laboratory phases of the
project, this study will concentrate very specifically on pollution and its effects on biodiversity.
Thus, while it would generate data of general limnological interest (on e.g. temperature,
conductivity, pH and dissolved oxygen content, and substrate type, water depth and beach
slope), it would 'resist' the temptation to explore the broader freshwater ecological
issues/phenomena. In this connection, the other Special Studies should heed the advice of
scientists involved in the LTR 'Programme of Basic Monitoring by Nationals' at Kigoma,
Bujumbura, Kalemie, Moba, Uvira, Karonda and Mpulungu. This programme was charged
with, and achieved, truly lake-wide sampling; however, on nutrients in particular, there are
concerns over lack of care with the identity of units (e.g. P or PO4P), and recording whether one
or duplicate samples taken.
Training will feature prominently in the Studies. Following discussions with scientists in all 4
lake countries, we propose to mount a first training workshop on pollution and pollution-related
biodiversity issues as soon as possible (i.e. subject to the release of funds for travel, T and S,
and daily remuneration, and the procurement of some outstanding equipment items). Details
have yet to be completed but it will involve say, 3 scientists/technicians from each country, and
run for probably no more than 3 or 4 days. It would consider the practicalities of sampling such
a large and ecologically diverse, planning the sampling trips, preserving the materials for
chemical and biological analysis, data recording and analysis, and even some aspects of data
interpretation and considerations about their presentation (reporting and publication).
The co-ordinators of the 'Pollution impacts...' study, recommend very strongly that at the outset
of the practical phases of the work (which for at least 12 months would also form the basis of
the training programmes), just two multi-habitat sites near (1-h journey) each of just 4 main
centres are established. By avoiding too many worries associated with long distance travel, the
aim would be to see these stations/institutions running smoothly (and in a sustainable manner),
before 'graduating' to more remote areas, and trying to cope with the added pressures of travel.
Additional stations/laboratories would be established ultimately, but not at the risk of hampering
progress at the initial centres.
Doubts over the above strategy have been expressed in some quarters within the PCU - the view
being that 'we must achieve lake-wide sampling i.e. stations right round and on the lake'. The
logistics of the latter are outlined below. Meanwhile, it should be emphasised that the somewhat
'conservative' programme suggested above has a good chance of furthering knowledge
considerably on, and identifying the following
spatial and temporal variation in the pollution status of a wide range of sediments and
biota in shoreline, inshore, offshore and open water habitats; the suite of pollution
parameters includes nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus species; metal ions oil
and pesticide residues.
the diversity of (primarily) the lower organisms including planktonic and attached
micro-Algae, Protozoa, Rotifera, Mollusca and Arthropoda.
the nature of the association/relationships between biodiversity ('total', species-, other
taxon- or size-specific) and particular pollutants or combinations of pollutants.
all of the above, as a function of the gradients exhibited by a particular pollutant e.g.
mud phosphorus content, Mollusc tissue mercury status.
the sources of the pollutants.
Above all, the project would establish comparatively 'well-found' laboratories, and cadres of
freshwater scientists capable of maintaining future studies, establishing new centres and
influencing policy over matters of water quality and lake management.
Truly 'lake-wide' coverage could never be resourced, while the proposed 4-station coverage that
will still encompass habitats dispersed widely over the lake can be supported. Of course, such a
strategy would produce at the most, only 8 (i.e. 4 x 2) sets of data (excluding information based
on horizontal or vertical transects) for a given pollutant (e.g. P) in a particular habitat (e.g. rocky
shore); however, even this would represent a major increase in data generation for this aspect of
Lake Tanganyika.
3.2 Special Study on 'Sediment discharge and its effects on biodiversity'
This section is currently being developed for discussion at the Project Preliminary Strategic
Plan meeting. It will be inserted into this report at that stage.
3.3 Special Study on 'Biodiversity'
This section is currently being developed for discussion at the Project Preliminary Strategic
Plan meeting. It will be inserted into this report at that stage.
4. LINKS TO ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION ISSUES
General introduction
As emphasised in the LTBP Inception Report (e.g. section 6.5.3), environmental education
(EE) is vital to the success of the project - particularly in relation to achieving the goal of
protecting the biodiversity of the lake.
EE is stressed as being important because:
1.
it empowers people with the knowledge, skills, attitudes and values that enables their
participation in present and future environmental management of the lake.
2.
it is the major precursor to environmental action and the main way of ensuring that the
project's goal is sustainable in the long term.
3.
it is one of the primary mechanisms to achieve unification of project strands and
integration of these to present the project as a holistic one.
As stressed in the executive summary of the Environmental Education Baseline Review,
environmental education is not seen as a separate area of project activity. It is rather an
integral component of the sustainable management of the lake. Although responsibility for
the EE programme at regional level falls within the Socio-Economic Special Studies, it is vital
for the success of the LTBP that the Special Study teams are also actively involved in EE
activities, particularly at a local level and in the presentation of their findings to local
communities.
With this in mind, although the principal purpose of the present mission is largely scientific
in nature, the opportunity was also taken during the visit to identify individuals, institutions
and organisations keen to participate in the environmental education aspects of the various
Special Studies programmes. The contacts made, discussions held and opportunities identified
in the countries visited are described in the following sections.
4.1
Burundi
It is hoped that a separate institutional resource assessment visit to this country can be
achieved soon, although the present news regarding Burundi and its neighbouring countries
suggests that there is little likelihood of this.
4.2
Tanzania
4.2.1 Kigoma High School
Kigoma High School was visited on 14-8-96. Present at the meeting were CF, Mrs Fatima
Mashaka (Deputy Head), Mr Lunga (Head, Department of Biology). The School Head, Mr
participate in, and benefit from this were explored. Mrs Mashaka, speaking (she felt sure) on
behalf of all the staff and students, expressed their enthusiasm to be involved with the large
lake study.
School infrastructure
Kigoma Secondary is the major Government secondary school in Kigoma. It has 722 pupils
and 34 staff. At present it has five streams in Forms 1 and 2, and 4 streams in Forms 3 and 4.
A Form 5 is expected to commence in the next academic year. Subject combinations offered
being Physics/Chemistry/Biology and Mathematics.
Potential collaborative activities
From the discussions, it is clear that little information is currently available for teachers and
students on Lake Tanganyika. The provision of such information in the form of newsletters,
booklets, posters, science project materials etc., would not only be a valuable resource for the
school but would raise the awareness of the lake amongst the students and staff alike.
As part of the Form 4 curriculum, science students are required to carry out a mini-project. A
few students have already visited TAFIRI in this connection. There is an excellent
opportunity here to encourage students studying Chemistry, Physics, Biology etc to make
fuller use of Lake Tanganyika for their project work. This of course applies to other such
schools in the vicinity of the lake.
Requests were made for LTBP staff (consultants and locally engaged personnel) to give talks
on the lake to both staff and students. It is strongly recommended that this activity be
initiated as soon as possible at this and other schools. The frequency of such visits will of
necessity be restricted by time factors, but a regular, even if relatively infrequent, series of
events would do much to disseminate information on the lake and provide a much needed link
to local communities.
At present, TAFIRI appears to be seen by teachers and students as a Government
institution with little obvious immediate relevance to their studies or their everyday lives.
Under the auspices of the present project, there is an opportunity for TAFIRI , in addition to
its scientific role, to provide a focus for the wider scientific and environmental education
issues of relevance and interest to the local communities bordering the lake. A detailed
proposal suggesting how this might be achieved at very little cost both at TAFIRI and the
Department of Fisheries, Mpulungu (Zambia), is presently being prepared by CF and TBW.
4.2.2 Mahale Mountains National Park
A meeting was held between GP, CF and Mr James Wakibara, Ecologist, Mahale Mountains
National Park on the RV `Liemba' on 14-8-96. The nature of the LTBP was explained and the
opportunities for collaboration discussed. In addition to scientific issues, potential
environmental education programmes relevant to the various Special Studies were also
Environmental education activities.
Some of the issues covered in this section are raised in earlier sections of this mission report,
although not specifically in relation to EE.
In view of the focus in the Mahale Mountains National Park thus far being on chimpanzee
research, Mr Wakibara expressed the need to diversify the research activities of the park. In
that context, a priority is the production for visitors to the park, of educational materials
illustrating the rich floral and faunal diversity in the terrestrial and aquatic zones. Such
materials could usefully include general information on the geology and history of the lake,
common birds and fish, and simple identification keys for trees and insects etc.
There is a strong focus on community conservation in and around the park, as evidenced by
the construction of schools and health units financed by the park in the 7 villages within its
boundaries. The production of environmental materials relating to Lake Tanganyika in general,
and to Mahale Mountains area in particular, for schools would be a very worthwhile.
4.2.3 Gombe National Park
During a reception held by the British Ambassador in Dar es Salaam to celebrate the opening
of an `Environmental Awareness Week', CF and TBW had the opportunity to discuss the
LTBP with Jane Goodall of Gombe National Park and the Jane Goodall Foundation/Institute
in particular. This park is, of course, much better known than Mahale and material describing
Gombe is apparently already available. Nevertheless, Dr Goodall expressed considerable
interest in the project and especially the proposals to disseminate the findings of the Special
Studies to the local communities. The production of appropriate environmental education
materials on Lake Tanganyika and its flora and fauna was also strongly supported. If the
Gombe area is eventually selected as a `reserve' by the LTBP, it could act as a `buffer zone'
which might minimise the attentions of Chimpanzee trophy hunters who often shoot from
the lake.
4.2.4 Wildlife Conservation Society of Tanzania (WCST)
A visit was made to this Society by TBW and CF to discuss the potential for collaboration
between the Project and WCST. Ms Alice Bhukali, the Co-ordinator, outlined the scope of
the Society's activities and expressed a strong interest in the LTBP.
WCST activities
WCST was established in 1988 with a mission to "preserve the natural flora and fauna of
Tanzania for the sake of mankind". The Society publishes MIOMBO - a regular newsletter
with up to date information on its activities and articles on wildlife and conservation. Copies
of the newsletter and other WCST publications were obtained. WCST launched a Coastal
Tanzania. This is clearly an active programme and much seems to have been achieved during
the six years of the project.
The Society has an active Education Section which organises Wildlife Clubs in schools,
publishes leaflets and booklets and arranges seminars for teachers and students. It also
organises regular monthly meetings about wildlife and conservation issues, and it has a library
for use by its members and members of the public. Copies of the Special Study Baseline
Reviews were requested for the library.
The Society is currently very short of funds and its activities are severely curtailed by having
only one vehicle. (The other vehicle was stolen last year and the driver killed during the
robbery)
Potential areas of collaboration
Possible joint LTBP/WCST activities in the field of EE are listed below:
regular presentations on the various aspects of Lake Tanganyika by Special Study Project
staff at the WCST public meetings in Dar es Salaam
preparation of articles on Lake Tanganyika in general, and on the Special Studies concerned
with biodiversity in particular, for the WCST newsletter (MIOMBO)
joint programmes with WCST Education Section including presentations on the results and
activities of the Special Studies to Wildlife Clubs in schools
production of educational materials for schools use and for the teachers' seminars run by
WCST: indeed, a series of such seminars focusing specifically on the lake would do much to
raise the profile of Lake Tanganyika in Tanzanian schools.
The opening of a WCST office and the development of their activities in the Lake Tanganyika
region would foster local interest in the lake and would underpin the sustainability of the
LTBP activities. It is recommended that consideration be given to supporting the opening of
such an office, perhaps in Kigoma, which would play a major role in many of the activities
suggested above.
Joint LTBP/WCST desk-top publishing facilities could be centred in the office. Vehicular
support would also be needed. At present much of the WCST activities are, of necessity,
centred on Dar es Salaam and the coastal strip. The opening of an office in Western Tanzania
would redress this imbalance and raise the profile of Lake Tanganyika in the country as a
whole.
4.2.5 TANAPA
TANAPA own some land in Kigoma, at Kibirizi, just north of the Port. This is accessible by
road and by boat in around 10 minutes from Kigoma town. This was granted to them 2-3
TANAPA have the intention of establishing an education/tourism centre there to promote
both Mahale and Gombe. They expressed an interest in using the proposed centre for a wider
environmental education/centre for promotion of lake tourism. This could fall within the
remit of the GEF project.
Action: i) A letter informing TANAPA of the GEF project objectives, areas of possible
participation and an invitation to participate are required from the PCU to:
Mr Lota Melamari, Director General, TANAPA, P.O. Box 3134, Arusha (cc to Mr
Mwasaga, Chief Ecologist)
ii) TANAPA would also like a copy of the Inception Report, and would like to be made
aware of any important developments in the project, perhaps though the invitation of a
TANAPA representative to Steering Committee meetings. Note that Mr Mwasaga has been
involved in the early stages of this project, and was at Andy Cohen's meeting in Bujumbura in
1991. Until a recent visit to Kigoma, where he talked with Keith Banister, he had not heard
of any progress with the project.
iii) The Scientific Liaison Officer should enquire further on the status of current plans for the
proposed Kigoma centre.
4.3
Zaire
none identified
4.4
Zambia
4.4.1 "Zapoto"-Lungu Theatre Group
This Theatre Group travels around the shoreline of the lake presenting plays in the local
Lungu language on lake-related environmental issues such as oil pollution in harbours, over-
fishing, and sewage contamination. The group is apparently quite popular and would make an
ideal vehicle for disseminating background information on the lake, and for informing the local
people about the nature and results of the LTBP. No contact with the Group was possible
during the mission and so no information is presently available on the make-up of the Group
or on their source of funding. This information is currently being sought.
Such local theatre groups could play a major role in raising public awareness regarding the
threats to the lake and it's catchment area, and have the potential to contribute significantly to
the long term efforts to ensure the sustainability of the lake.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Special Study Groups make as full use as possible of Zapoto and
similar theatre groups to raise awareness of Lake Tanganyika amongst the local communities
and to disseminate the activities and findings of the various special studies. This would, of
course require, working closely with group members to provide the necessary information and
materials. Financial assistance for their activities should perhaps also be considered.
4.4.2 Chongololo and Conservation Club, Chitinta School, Mpulungu
Chongololo Clubs such as the one at Chitinta School are to be found in primary schools
throughout Zambia and are run by interested teachers after school. They focus primarily on
environmental and conservation issues and often act as one of the focal points for such
matters in the local community. As such, members of the local communities often play an
active role in such clubs by giving talks, organising activities, and raising funds in various
ways. Thus, for example, CF and GP were approached whilst at Mpulungu for a contribution
to the Chongololo Club at Chitinta School by one of the staff of the Department of Fisheries
who was acting on behalf of the Secretary, Mr M R Mumba. Local residents of Mpulungu
including the owners of the local petrol station actively support the club.
Nationally, support for the Chongololo Clubs comes not only from the Ministry of
Education, the University of Zambia ( a lecturer in the School of Education has a specific
responsibility for such clubs) but also from various NGOs including ZEEP.
Recommendation
Chongololo Clubs represent an excellent vehicle for disseminating information about the lake
in general and for publicising, even in a necessarily simple form, the results of the special
studies to primary school pupils, their teachers and to the wider community. As with the
theatre groups mentioned above, this would necessitate working closely with the respective
club organisers either directly or through an NGO such as ZEEP to prepare suitable
presentations and educational materials. Some financial assistance, even if relatively modest
would be required.
In towns such as Mpulungu, which are anticipated to be centres of project scientific activity,
it may be worth considering appointing a (part-time?) local environmental education officer,
possibly a local primary school teacher, who would be responsible for linking project outputs
with theatre groups, Chongololo clubs, and the wider local community.
4.4.3 Motomoto Museum, Mbala
A meeting between CF and Mr E Nkole Sosala, Keeper of Prehistory at the Museum took
place on 17 August in Mbala. The LTBP was explained and possible links with the Museum
explored. Discussions centred principally on the environmental education aspects of the
special studies programme and ways in which the Museum could participate in disseminating
the results of the project to the local communities in the vicinity.
The museum is unusually substantial for a small town and is in fact the second largest in
Zambia. Discussions are under way at present, however, which may result in some of the
exhibits being transferred to other museums. The large number of artefacts and exhibits
housed at the Motomoto Museum were almost all collected over a period of many years by a
local missionary, who was never seen in public without a pipe - hence the name of the
museum!
The museum is well known in the area and is particularly popular with local school children.
The museum was closed on the day the visit to Mbala was made, but it is understood that the
collections are housed in a number of separate buildings and include a display devoted to
fishing activities on Lake Tanganyika.
Potential collaborative activities
Mr Sosala is very keen for the Museum to play an active part in the LTBP. The Museum
located as it is a comparatively short distance from the Lake is ideally situated as a Centre for
raising the profile of the lake amongst the local communities and for disseminating the results
and conclusions from the project to audiences in the vicinity of the lake.
It is therefore suggested that, in conjunction with the Museum, displays be set up at the
Museum which focus on the various aspects of the Project activities. These could include
information on the Lake itself, on the flora and fauna of the lake, on fishing activities, on
threats from pollution etc.
It is also recommended that the Provincial Fisheries Department and also the Water
Department be encouraged to mount complementary displays illustrating the way in which
their activities help to support the viability and long term sustainability of the lake. This
collaborative effort between the local departments and the Project personnel would serve to
underline the capacity building nature of the project whilst at the same time informing the
local residents about the lake itself. In addition to the displays, the Museum would be a
suitable location for Project staff to give talks on the Lake Tanganyika Programme from time
to time.
The activities outlined above would, of course, involve financial support for materials,
preparation of the display room and the displays themselves and would require the
appointment, probably on a part-time basis, of a local environmental education co-ordinator
to ensure the success of the project. This could be one of the Museum staff.
In summary, collaboration with the Museum in the ways suggested above, would provide an
excellent opportunity for raising interest in and concern for Lake Tanganyika amongst the
local communities for a relatively modest outlay.
4.4.4 Mbala Secondary School, Mbala
During a visit to Mbala on 17-8-96, CF met Mr E Sosala and discussed the possibilities for
staff, parents and students of Mbala Secondary School to be involved in the LTBP, were
discussed. Mr Sosala, in addition to his responsibilities as Keeper of Prehistory at Motomoto
Museum is also Vice-Chairman of the Parent-Teachers Association of the school. Mr Sosala
was of the opinion that parents, staff and students would be very interested in learning more
about the lake and the activities that it supports and was very keen for the Parent-Teachers
Lack of time prevented a visit to the school, but Mr Sosala indicated that it was an old
established school with a student role of over 1000 pupils. As is the case for other secondary
schools in Zambia, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Maths etc. are not taught as separate
subjects until Grade 10 i.e. from the third year onwards. For the first two years of secondary
school (Grades 8 and 9 ) science is taught as an interdisciplinary subject (Environmental
Science).
Potential collaborative activities
From the discussions, it is clear that little information on Lake Tanganyika is currently
available for teachers or students. The preparation of such information in the form of
newsletters, booklets. science project materials etc. would be of substantial benefit to the
school but would also raise awareness of the lake amongst students, staff and indeed parents.
It is further suggested that any such programmes be carried in conjunction with the
Advancement of English, Maths and Science (AIEMS) Project Resource and Training Centre
in Mbala. Such centres which are equipped by the British Council are part of AIEMS Project
which is aimed at improving secondary schools and in-service training in Zambia. If materials
that focus particularly on Lake Tanganyika were to be incorporated as an integral part of the
AIEMS Project this could raise the awareness of the Lake not only in the areas close to the
Lake itself but amongst school children throughout Zambia.
The Junior Engineers and Technologists Society (JETS) club at the school is very active and
would be a further useful avenue for raising interest in the lake. The JETS clubs are in all
schools and are funded by the Ministries of Education and of Technology and are co-
ordinated by Dr Simboli of the School of Education, UNZA. Activities include competitions,
quizzes and projects on a variety of environmental and agricultural topics. Visits by club
members to Mpulungu to see Project activities at first hand, talks by Project personnel and
similar events would be an effective way of increasing interest in the long term future of the
lake.
In view of the relative proximity of the school to the lake, there is also an excellent
opportunity here for the Project to facilitate visits by students to the lake to carry out their
project work and for Project staff (consultants and locally engaged personnel) to give talks
about the lake and project activities and results to the students, staff and parents. Such
programmes could also be usefully linked into the activities at the Motomoto museum
suggested in the previous section.
4.4.5 Northern Province Development Programme (NPDP), Irish Aid
Meetings were held between CF and Mr Cosmos Chizongo (Deputy Co-ordinator, NPDP) in
Kasama, Northern Province on 22-8-96 and with Ms Bernadette Crawford (Senior
Programme Officer, Irish Aid) at the Embassy of Ireland on 26-8-96. The purpose of the
meetings were to assess the extent to which the projected activities of the LTBP and the
existing programmes of the NPDP are complementary to each other.
The Irish Aid Programme which began in 1982 has increased substantially in scope and
budget in recent years and reached £3.1 million pounds in 1994. Approximately 40% of the
Zambian expenditure is targeted at Northern Province and indeed Irish Aid is probably the
principal donor agency in Northern Province. The programme in that area draws together a
number of related components including water supply, sanitation, health care, primary
education. An urban upgrading programme was added in 1995.
During the discussions, Ms Crawford and Mr Chizongo both expressed considerable interest
in the LTBP and were keen to develop collaborative activities wherever possible. Ms
Crawford also requested copies of the various Baseline Reviews.
On the basis of the visits made to the NPDP Headquarters in Kasama and from discussions
with Irish Aid personnel it was evident that the NPDP programme is very wide ranging in its
scope, effectively run and takes the potential environmental implications of its activities very
seriously. A number of the NPDP activities are of relevance to the technical and
environmental education aspects of the Project Special studies.
The Rural Water Supply Project, begun in Kasama in 1983, which supports the
digging/rehabilitation of large numbers of village wells with a view to providing clean drinking
water to rural communities, was extended to Mbalain 1992, and to Kaputa District in 1995.
In the latter case, prior to wells being dug, the local people were dependant upon Lake
Kaputa (near to Nsumbu National Park) for water. A number had been killed by crocodiles in
the process.
As part of the Water supply Project, support is currently being provided for Water Analysis
Laboratories in Kasama and Mbala.
The Health Project, based in Mbala, is designed to upgrade the District's poor health facilities
and to provide health sector training. The project also supported the rehabilitation of a health
centre in Mpulungu, where cholera was a particular problem.
Urban Upgrading Projects in which the major emphasis is placed on capacity building,
empowerment of local residents and community participation in upgrading their environment
and living conditions, are a major feature of the NPDP programme. Such programmes were
first initiated at Kamanga, a shanty town on the outskirts of Lusaka and in the light of the
success of the programme a similar project was initiated in Ndeke, Mazabuka, some 90 miles
north of Lusaka in 1993. Two further programmes were commenced in Kasama and Mbala in
1995.
A central feature of all the Irish Aid supported programmes outlined above is the commitment
to education programmes at all levels from primary schools to informal adult education. The
NPDP staff run a series of in-service training courses as part of their programme activities and
expressed their interest in any LTBP related materials that they could make use of in their
various education programmes. In Mbala, they already work in conjunction with the British
Council AIEMS Centre.
The LTBP has an excellent opportunity here to disseminate information on the importance of
Lake Tanganyika as a vital local resource by participating in and supporting such educational
initiatives. This could be achieved, for example, by preparing suitable educational materials
for use by the Irish Aid programmes and if time and resources allowed, taking part in their
training programmes. Ms Crawford expressed her enthusiasm for such collaborative activities.
A further aspect of the Irish Aid programme that is potentially relevant to the project is
concerned with tourism. In 1994, a major new programme of support for the Hotel and
Training Institute (HTTI) began. At present, Zambia's significant tourist potential, which
could greatly enhance the country's foreign earnings, is severely under-exploited-nowhere
more so than in the Northern Province. The potential of Sumbu National Park as a tourist
destination is enormous, and yet it is relatively little known even within Zambia itself.
There is an excellent opportunity here for the Project to have an input to the HTTI
programme, possibly by preparing descriptive materials on the Lake itself, ,the wildlife,
current environmental concerns and Project activities etc., These would serve to emphasise
the existing and potential opportunities for fishing, game viewing, bird watching, photography
etc. provided by the Lake and in so doing, the importance of attempts to ensure the
sustainability of Lake would be communicated to those actively involved in the tourism
industry.
The recent refurbishment of the hotel at Kasaba Bay and the recently introduced scheduled air
service linking Kasaba Bay with Kasama, Ndola and Lusaka suggests that the importance of
the Lake to Zambia's tourism industry is increasingly being recognised.
4.4.6 Zambia Environmental Education Project (ZEEP)
A meeting was held at the ZEEP offices on 30-8-96 between CF and Mr Justin Lupere,
Materials Development Officer during which potential links between ZEEP and the LTBP
were discussed. The importance of disseminating the results of the Special Studies to the
wider community was emphasised and Mr Lupere outlined the diverse activities of ZEEP in
general and the work of the Materials Development Section in particular.
ZEEP is currently funded by WWF and run by Juliana Chileshe. ZEEP's activities include
building EE centres, teacher training, and the preparation of EE materials for primary and
secondary schools. Mr Lupere generously provided CF with a comprehensive selection of
some of these materials. More specifically ZEEP has initiated the following EE activities:
4.
production of a training manual for teacher trainers working in pre-school teacher
training colleges.
5.
Training of District Inspectors of Schools from each of the Provinces of Zambia. The
training is carried out by means of workshops of one week duration aimed at emphasising
environmental education issues. The workshops are run in conjunction with the relevant
Provincial Education Office.
6.
Preparation of EE materials for Primary schools, including books, pamphlets, posters
etc. The materials produced are evaluated by the Curriculum Development Centre, revised as
7.
Preparation of EE materials for Secondary schools. These are based on the
Environmental Science Syllabus in Grades 8 and 9 and on the separate subject curricula for the
later grades.
8.
Production of a teacher training manual for tertiary level students training to be
teachers is in preparation.
9.
ZEEP actively encourages project work and investigative activities in schools and
supports the JETS club programme. It also organises local science fairs at district level.
10.
ZEEP has recently appointed a Community Environmental Education Officer, Mr
Jonathan Chisaka, who will be responsible for the extension activities of the Project.
Potential collaborative activities.
ZEEP has an excellent reputation in Zambia and is clearly very active in promoting
environmental education issues and activities. It has built up considerable expertise in EE and
materials development and Mr Lupere was very keen to develop joint EE activities with the
LTBP.
An excellent opportunity exists here to work with ZEEP to disseminate the results of the
Special Studies to District Officials, colleges, schools, JETS clubs, and to the wider
community. Suitable materials based on Lake Tanganyika and on the results of the Special
studies could be prepared and used by ZEEP as an integral part of their training manuals,
materials and in-service courses.
5. CONSIDERATIONS OF GENERAL RELEVANCE TO THE LAKE TANGANYIKA
BIODIVERSITY SPECIAL STUDIES
This section addresses issues that became particularly apparent during the present mission,
and which impinge on more or less all aspects of the Special Studies - including the
environmental education issues addressed in the previous chapter. Prominent here are
comments that have a considerable bearing on the `image' of the project as it stands at
present, such as the state of one of the main the research vessels,
5.1 The RV 'Echo'
Introduction
The `RV Echo' (hereafter the Echo) is the approximately 10-m research vessel owned by
TAFIRI, with cabin, wheel-house, fore- and aft- deck accommodation. She is equipped with
a helmsman's compass and a Raytheon GPS, both in working condition. The following
observations on her general condition, facilities and seaworthiness are based on the voyage to
Mahale from Kigoma (20 August) and back to Kigoma (21-22 August).
Apparently, considerable resources (US$ 11,000) have been spent on upgrading the Echo by
the Lake Tanganyika project (N.B. a report, detailing the overhauling and refitting of the
engine of the this vessel by Mr N A Chaile is held by the PCU). However, she is still a dirty
(the port side of the glass fibre hull of the vessel is blackened by diesel exhaust fumes) and
noisy vessel, with significant engine problems, and a lack of basic facilities. Even more serious
are her potentially dangerous features. Thus, the wisdom of this expenditure is questionable
in the light of the experiences of the voyage. The following extracts from RWD's diary refer
to some of the problems encountered on the journey to and from Mahale.
Tuesday 20 August
RWD, TBW, EHA and PP boarded the Echo at Kigoma Port at 07.00 hours together with the
two man crew. Headed south along the western shores of Lake Tanganyika via the delta of
the River Luiche, 9 km (c. 1 hour) from Kigoma. Continued southwards to the waters of the
Malagarasi Delta, 37 km (c. 2.5 hours from Kigoma). Here the Echo ran aground in the
shallow waters. The vessel was refloated by towing it with an outboard motor-propelled
inflatable craft which the Echo was carrying. This task was succeeded after 30 minutes. The
Echo was then anchored and we were able to explore the nearshore distributaries of the
Malagarasi by means of the inflatable. Some bottom sediment samples were collected. At
11.15 hours we returned to the Echo and resumed the passage southwards. At 11.55 hours
the Echo experienced exhaust problems causing extensive and severe emission of fumes. The
crew managed to carry out a makeshift repair within 20 minutes. However, the vessel
continued to be very dirty and noisy for the rest of the journey. Journey to Mahale resumed,
the Echo arriving at 19.30 hours.
Wednesday 21 August
It was intended to spend the afternoon viewing various parts of the park from the lake aboard
the Echo. However, on reboarding this boat we were informed by the crew that it had
developed major engine problems such that no forward transmission could be engaged.
Consequently, whilst attempts were being made to repair the engine by the vessel's crew, the
afternoon was spent visiting some of the terrestrial environments of the park; beach,
nearshore, fluvial channels etc. Departed from Mahale by means of the inflatable at 17.10
hours by which time the engine problems had apparently been fixed.
Observations and some recommendations
(i) Safety on board
In places the guard rails are broken and the fixtures are loose and potentially very dangerous.
New guard rails along the entire length of the vessel are required.
There is no echo-sounder on board. Given that we ran aground in the shallow waters of the
Malagarasi an echo-sounder is essential.
The radio does not function and requires to be repaired or replaced.
The canopy uprights are insecurely fixed to the deck and would not bear the weight of a
person in rough water conditions. These require attention.
The deck is, in places, very slippery, and requires painting with non-slip deck-track.
The stern platform is in a poor state of repair and requires attention.
There are no life jackets on board (although these had been requested prior to the trip), only
buoyancy aids are available.
The few ropes on board are new but of inferior quality and should be upgraded.
There is no fire extinguisher on board. This must be rectified.
The wiring is in a generally very poor state of repair and needs replacing. The canopy light
hangs loose on its wires and requires fixing.
No maps/charts of the lake are available on board.
(ii) Engine
The engine requires a complete overhaul. Problems with both the exhaust and transmission
system were encountered. Exhaust emissions are consistently high. It is noisy and dirty.
Sound deadening should be fitted below the engine cover to improve the working
environment.
There is no toilet, although the cabin accommodation exists for one. Given that long periods
of time may potentially be spent on board by individuals involved in the sampling
programmes, toilet facilities are essential.
There are no fixed cooking facilities or refrigerator on board although spaces exist for these.
Such facilities are not essential but desirable on long journeys.
(iv) On board practices
The one bucket on board the boat is used for baling the engine room, washing purposes and
preparing food.
All wastes, solid and liquid, are thrown over the side into the lake.
On entering shallow waters, for example close to a beach, the vessel is first run aground, prior
to running astern into slightly deeper waters, then the anchor is dropped.
Conclusions
The Echo presents a very poor advertisement for the Lake Tanganyika project. Her overall
facilities and appearance are certainly not those of a scientific research vessel!
The crew require training in hygienic practices on board and, whilst it may be the norm on the
lake, it is not appropriate for this project to dispose of wastes over the side of a research
vessel being deployed to monitor levels of pollution. In general terms, the crew should be
trained to take greater care of the vessel and to avoid unnecessary damage to the hull.
Before any more money is spent on the Echo it is recommended that she be given a thorough
examination, whilst out of the water, by a qualified boat/marine engineer. Only then can the
true costs of upgrading her to an acceptable and safe standard be realistically assessed. Such a
survey should determine if indeed it is worth spending any more money on the Echo or if the
resources of the project would be better and more economically directed towards another
vessel.
5.2 Project Liaison
This section deals with observations made during the mission and concerning liaison between
British persons on the project, and between these and outside bodies/persons. In this
connection it should be noted that although the SLO took/accompanied us to relatively nearby
`habitats', he did not join us on the really long and often very arduous journeys to e.g.
Mpulungu, Mahale and Uvira. Indeed he accompanied us on a very minor fraction of our
`institutional resource assessments'. Surprisingly too, we were never accompanied by any
African counterpart to the institutions - and certainly not by any National Co-ordinators!
The flow of information within the project
The passage of information between UK- and Africa-based British personnel has proceeded
reasonably well; as far as we can gather, Baseline Reviews, Progress Reports, Inception
Workshop reports prepared in UK reached their African destinations in reasonable time.
However, the following 'hiccups' are listed in the hope that they can be avoided in the future:
provision by NRI of 'single-entry' visas for Tanzania, whereas we requested, and paid
the appropriate monies for, 'multiple-entry' versions; this resulted in each of us
paying an unforeseen 50$ US.
the PCU had not prepared us at all for the following extra expenditures (pooled
between 4 persons - and not without some considerable anxiety for some): 400,000
Tz shillings for fuel for the RV 'Echo' and 86$ US for outboard engine oil (Kigoma-
Malagarasi-Mahale-Kigoma); 120$ US for accommodation and travel costs for Bertha
(SLO's secretary) who accompanied us on the trip to Uvira and environs.
having assumed that 'B and B' at the Kigoma house of the Project Liaison Officer
meant just that, we were surprised at being forced to eat at the 'Railway' Hotel a
kilometre away; while this cost only some £1.50 daily for the approximately 12 days
involved, it took up a total of some 1.5 person-hours out of each day.
an unnecessary worry was placed on consultants by the UK administrators, by
failing to provide the former with ample financial 'advances' before they leave their
respective countries; no workers should have to pay what can amount to substantial
sums out of their own pockets/accounts.
We are also report that the PCU failed to attend to many of the concerns that the mission
raised while preparing for this mission. Even though requests regarding the following issues
were communicated to the PCU only weeks in advance of the mission leaving UK, we cannot
believe that such fundamentals could be other than uppermost in the PCU's mind in any
event.
The flow of information between the PCU and African personnel and institutions
We are very concerned that while some people (mainly in Kigoma) are aware of the Lake
Tanganyika Biodiversity Protection Project, many are of the view that little has been, or is
being, done under this umbrella. Moreover, many groups in Kigoma and elsewhere have also
only a vague idea of the project, its aims and aspirations and the way in which it proposes to
achieve these aims - especially where their involvement is a possibility. This is disturbing on
a number of counts:
barring final ratification, UNDP accepted our Technical Proposal nearly a year ago,
the Scientific Liaison Officer arrived in Kigoma some 8 months prior to this visit.
the
TAFIRI-FAO
FINNIDA
compound,
and
a
number
of
other
organisations/institutions (e.g. TACARE, KRWD) are virtually within walking
even though this project was unable to establish reasonable telephone, facsimile or
other e.g. radio, links (and it has yet to achieve all of these even now), some such
facilities existed in the nearby institutions
back in UK, co-ordinators of the Special Studies at least, have produced an immense
volume of literature in the form of the Baseline Reviews in particular, but also `Back-
to-Office' and Progress reports, and these have been communicated to Tanzania.
at least one of the co-ordinating institutes has repeatedly offered, human and, albeit
moderate, monetary resources to place a graduate in the region to hasten the project
`start-up' and thus, the publicising process.
between the time of the Inception Workshop (March 1996) to the time of writing,
TBW has received only one communication (a short fax) from the PCU in Africa.
Particularly bearing in mind the close proximity of the major institutions in Kigoma to the
Scientific Liaison Officer's residence, we feel that the potential for strengthening links
between the Project co-ordinators and regional administrators on the one hand and regional
scientists on the other, has been very little explored. It is accepted, however, that while
documents such as the Baseline Reviews were sent out to the National Co-ordinators, these
persons did not forward them to those personnel such as the scientists who needed the
information most.
5.3 Public Perception/'Image'
The mission has been generally dismayed at the image that seems now to be widely associated
with this project. Shortcomings include the lack of progress with the work - and this relates in
part to the comments under `Liaison'. Setting aside issues such as those consequent on the
developments in Burundi and Zaire, and very real delays due to telecommunication failures,
for example, we identify the following as in need of attention:
no immediately obvious and easily identifiable project Centre; the Scientific Liaison
Officer's residence was selected as Project HQ at the Lake. A greater presence in the
Dept. of Fisheries should be encouraged
the accommodation of visiting scientists and others associated with the project; visits to
the region are extremely exacting; and very long journeys in quite small and spartan
vessels exhausting. As a potential `haven' for visitors it is suggested, that the SLO
residence is not adequate.
similar remarks apply to the Echo; conditions on this vessel are not only primitive, but
also dangerous; but for good fortune, trips by the present mission could have proved
disastrous at a number of junctures
at least two `high profile' exercises highlighted the slack planning, poor preparedness, and
having with some trepidation invited Mahale Mountains National Park staff onto the
'Research' (!) vessel for a trip along the shore of the Reserve, the engine failed and these
personnel had to be transferred to land in our inflatable craft (which - along with life-
jackets) would not even have been taken on the journey from Kigoma had it not been at the
insistence of the UK consultants); the second instance concerned a 'Ujiji'-type boat
journey to an erosion site to the north of Kigoma (and south of Gombe) with, including
others, the daughter of the British High Commissioner to Tanzania; this programme started
off badly with prolonged delays (boat and engine at different localities) and later,
considerable and potentially very serious leaks, necessitating 4 stops ashore to effect very
makeshift repairs and bale out the boat out.
In all, many of these shortcomings and failings seem to stem from an unqualified acceptance
that `this is Africa'. Although living, working, and travelling and communicating over long
distances in Africa, can be, and often is, very difficult, we suggest that project personnel
residing permanently in the region see as an important aspect of 'resourcing', the elevation of
operating standards - towards those characteristic of ecological projects in UK; the
impression gained at present suggests that our standards are being compromised.
In conclusion, our 'corporate image' must be turned round completely and swiftly; this is a
highly prestigious venture - and one in which most of us feel highly privileged to be involved.
However, some of the UK institutes who contributed to the original (and successful)
Technical Proposal are likely to terminate their contracts, if they do not see a very noticeable,
and widely publicised shift in 'attitude' and action.
5.4 Health and Safety
This section is itemised to emphasise the importance we attach to the safety and well-being
of all involved in the project. However, because of the project's obvious and singularly poor
attention to health and safety - at both personal and project levels - the issues have already
been raised in the foregoing sections. In addition, we would welcome protocols and 'advice'
sheets on aspects that need to be considered before leaving UK (e.g. the provision of the 'best'
insurance in the case of a really serious emergency in a remote area - even in mid-lake).
6. OVERALL RECOMMENDATIONS
The mission has made a number recommendations on aspects that need attention in order to
progress the whole LTBP effectively, and the `limnological' Special Studies and associated
environmental education activities (EE) in particular. The present section paraphrases most of
the main recommendations. Exceptions are aspects relating to the links with EE (Section 4)
and particularly crucial issues affecting all studies, including the state of the RV 'Echo' and the
situation regarding the project 'image' (Section 5).
6.1 Burundi
6.1.1 Ministry departments and non-university research institutions
It is essential that all efforts be made to keep Burundi involved in the LTBP. Failure to do
this will not only tarnish the regional character of the project; without this country's
involvement, we would lose the opportunity of assessing pollution impacts on biodiversity,
in an area of the lake and its catchment probably most severely affected by industrial outfalls
and population pressures. Above all, we would lose the chance of capitalising on the infra-
structure and a proven body of scientific expertise and equipment resources that have been
built up at LTR (FAO FINNIDA) and CRRHA. We would also lose out on office and other
facilitation offered by e.g. the Ministries of Environment (INECN) and of Agriculture and
Livestock.
6.1.2 The University of Burundi, Bujumbura
It is important to mount a mission to the university as soon as the situation in Burundi
improves. A number of the (very good) staff met at e.g. LTR (FAO FINNIDA) and CRHHA
are graduates of this university. With the additional experience of working under the direction
of e.g. Dr Vandelannootte, these people constitute a valuable 'resource' which the LTBP
cannot afford to overlook.
6.1.3 NGOs
These must be explored once the security situation improves.
6.1.4 Other organisations
These must be explored once the security situation improves.
6.1.5 Potential study sites visited
These must be explored once the security situation improves.
6.2 Tanzania
From the viewpoint of its location as near to the centre of the region as any of the other main
lakeside areas (i.e. Bujumbura, Uvira and Mpulungu), Kigoma must continue to be established
as a very `visible' and strong base for the LTBP. It is relatively easily reached by rail, water
(lake) and air from Europe and beyond. Moreover, it can build on the already established
laboratory campus of TAFIRI and LTR, and the Ministry of Environment and Tourism's
Regional Fishery Department. Other organisations such as the KRWD, and NGOs e.g.
TACARE, are nearby. Along with local hotels, these facilities provide some of the best
opportunities for regional meetings, workshops and seminars. Of paramount importance in
this connection, and in view of the important training element encompassed by LTBP, is the
close proximity of Kigoma to a wide range of unimpacted and polluted areas, comprising a
broad suite of shore-line habitats (e.g. boulders through to fine muds) as well as influent rivers
and the open lake. Phone, facsimile and a number of E-mail links also point to the sense of
developing this centre.
6.2.1 Ministry of Water (Water Resources Technical Division), Dar es Salaam
The project must maintain contact with this Ministry Division over all aspects of water
resource assessment; any river flow data (generated by the Ministry's Kigoma Regional
Water Department) are crucial to obtaining estimates of the loadings of nutrients and
pollutants to the lake: `loading' = water discharge x (e.g.) nutrient concentration). Archived
data must also be reviewed.
6.2.2 Ministry of Water (Water Resources Technical Division), Kigoma Regional
Water Department
Preliminary plans regarding river flow and sediment discharge recording, must be finalised.
An appropriately harmonised programme of water quality monitoring must be designed in
conjunction with the KRWD. The SLO must remain in regular and frequent contact with the
KRWD and obtain copies of incoming data for analysis.
Further checks than were possible during this mission, need to be made on the actual working
order, and mode of storage and maintenance, of the instruments and ancillary laboratory
equipment currently lodged at KRWD.
It is recommended that the KRWD's involvement in LTBP water quality work, be focused on
the river environments.
Paul Kiliho (Chief Chemist with Kigoma Region Redevelopment Programme) should be
contacted in relation to agricultural planning, while the Dar es Salaam (Ubungo) laboratory of
the Ministry of Water should be approached over possible training of analytical chemists.
6.2.3 Ministry of Environment and Tourism, Regional Fisheries Department
Links with this department ought to be maintained and strengthened with a view to it
contributing to the LTBP by way of not just the provision of catch statistics, but the making
available of samples for biodiversity and size frequency analysis, and e.g. liver and other
Moderate funding from the LTBP should be released in order to upgrade/refurbish this site in
the following areas: security gates and fences; wooden boats and fibre glass `launch'; power
generator; basic fish measuring devices (scales, rulers, notebooks); boat engine(s); life-jackets;
and waterproofs and gumboots.
6.2.4 Tanzania Fisheries Research Institute (TAFIRI) and LTR (FAO FINNIDA)
It is vital that the LTBP strengthens this station - partly because of its location in Kigoma,
but also because of its historical association with the LTR (FAO FINNIDA) project; that link
has produced a number of dedicated scientists who must be assigned QUICKLY to the
project - otherwise they will leave the area (as has happened in one or two cases already).
Moreover, the existing laboratory is reasonably well-equipped, and there is an inflatable craft
(and possibly the RV `Echo' - but see below) The PCU must establish whether all of the
facilities previously used by the LTR will - as intimated during this mission - be `left' to the
LTBP.
In spite of the acknowledged experience of many of the researchers and technicians based
here, training is still needed; it is thus, very important that the training workshop mooted by
this mission (to involve say, 5 scientists/technicians from each of the 4 lake countries), be
facilitated as expeditiously as possible.
The alterations proposed by the mission for the TAFIRI laboratory and associated work
space should also be made as quickly as possible.
It is recommended that the Kigoma TAFIRI laboratory be the main centre for Tanzania's
involvement in the LTBP's lake-based work. In this connection - and in the interests of
establishing a sustainable programme of limnological investigations - the mission advises an
approach to chemical analysis involving the older, traditional techniques (gravimetry,
titrations etc.) rather than the kit-based (e.g. `Hach' instrument) procedures.
Equipment items recommended for the TAFIRI laboratory are: 1 chest freezer for storage
samples etc.; 1 water still - more recent model needed; 2 magnetic stirrer/hot plates; 2 top-pan
balance (0.01g sensitivity); 1 double-beam UV/visible spectrophotometer & spares; 1
fluorescence spectrophotometer; camera and attachments for the 3 existing microscopes; a
power stabiliser (more powerful than the present one which is only 1.5kVA).
It is again recommended that the long-term and cost-effective acquisition of limnological data
on the lake (in the other three countries as well as Tanzania) would be best achieved by the
adoption of the more traditional methods of analysis. The `Hach' kit approach could still be
retained for field work and as an alternative method for cross-checking data acquired by
traditional procedures.
6.2.5 Tropical Pesticides Research Institute, Arusha
Some decisions have to be made as regards capitalising on the undoubted expertise that exists
tissue and sediment analysis, for example. It is important to establish whether the non-
functioning of certain sophisticated analytical equipment e.g. AAS is simply due to lack of
spare bulbs asserted by the staff.
6.2.6 Dar es Salaam University, Faculty of Science, and selected departments
We suggest that - of the 6 Departments in the University of Dar es Salaam that the mission
visited - few are likely to be of major interest to the LTBP. Exceptions are the potential links
identified with the Departments of Chemistry; Civil Engineering (flood frequency analysis
and flood forecasting); Geology (XRD analysis of suspended sediments and possibly, of
associated heavy metal(s)), and Zoology (Mr Botterweg's computerised database and
mapping of species distributions). However, the university as a whole must be viewed as a
source of graduates with the potential to contribute to the LTBP through the execution of
MSc and/or PhD studies. Such people would almost certainly be required to register with the
likes of Dar es Salaam University, even if all/the majority of the work towards these degrees
was done at the LTBP lake-side laboratories.
6.2.7 Wildlife Conservation Society of Tanzania
The LTBP should endeavour to establish, at each of its 4 (?) main centres, at least, displays
and collections of leaflets, `fliers', reports and other literature that it produces/publishes. In
so doing, it should not only draw on the experience and achievements of the WCST, but
accept the offer made by this Society to display such publicity material at its headquarters in
Dar es Salaam. (See also recommendations relating to `Links with Environmental Education').
6.2.8 Other organisations
a. The Lake Victoria Environmental Management Plan (LVEMP)
A representative of the LVEMP (Mr Mbwana) was invited to speak at the LTBP Inception
Workshop in Dar es Salaam (March 1996). Such a move should be repeated by inviting Mr
Mburane or `A.N. Other' to as many of our (i.e. LTBP) planning/strategy meetings - and
even seminars/workshops. Invitees to meetings devoted primarily to field and laboratory
practice should, however, be more or less strictly reserved for practising researchers and
technicians - not administrators, institute directors and national co-ordinators. This does not
obviate the occasional presence of such officers, however; indeed, the LTBP Special Studies
must foster good scientist-administrator collaboration.
6.2.9 Potential study sites in Tanzania
i. Gombe Stream National Park
Particularly during the approximately 12-month period envisaged primarily for training
national appointees to the LTBP, the Gombe area should be used as a field site. Firstly, it
appears to represent one of the least impacted areas visited by this mission; it could provide,
for example, a rare opportunity to study the chemistry (pollutant status) and sediment loads
within two hours from Kigoma. Thirdly, the Gombe Park is associated with the Institute
directed by Dr Jane Goodall, with whom we briefly discussed possible collaboration; such a
link can only prove beneficial to the GEF project, and may even lay the foundation for one of
the Aquatic (Reserve) Parks that the LTBP is committed to establishing.
It is suggested that (i) the feasibility of `manning' such a site in the longer-term be explored,
and (ii) the costs are estimated for resourcing the park headquarters - capacity-building at the
same time - with water quality probes, sampling gear and e.g. a freezer-refrigerator for storing
batches of samples until they can be dispatched to e.g. Kigoma.
ii. Rivers Luiche and Malagarasi
It is important for the LTBP to help the KRWD to maintain (or re-establish) their recording
of river levels - and thus water discharges - and sediment loads from these rivers; this may
mean the project lending the KRWD a vehicle plus driver at regular intervals, and providing
sampling gear and storage bottles; however, without this, the chance of obtaining valuable
information on these relatively impacted waters and their deltas, will be lost.
iii. Sites between Kigoma and Gombe
A number of sites comprising a rich variety of beach and shoreline habitats within this stretch
of the lake, needs to be selected for investigating e.g. the impact of vegetation burning on
water quality and biodiversity. It is also important for another reason, that this area of
apparent, substantial, ecological diversity is surveyed: it may help to distinguish between
species diversity and distribution patterns that are controlled by pollution, from those
determined largely by availability/non-availability of substrate.
iv. Lake Shore Sites to the South of Kigoma
There is probably little difference between the overall ecological diversity at these sites, and
those found in many places elsewhere. However, it is recommended that in the early stages
of training scientists and technicians in field sampling techniques, these areas be used. Firstly,
the sites lie just a few minutes' drive from Kigoma; secondly, these small bays contrast with
Kigoma Bay in terms of size and pollution pressure.
v. River Luiche - Gauging Station 4B9
This station should be included in programmes aimed at quantifying riverine pollution and/or
sediment pollution loadings to the lake. As such, it could generate some of the first estimates
of the rates of loss - and thus, 'export coefficients' - of materials such as nutrients, from the
land areas drained.
vi. River Luiche near Ujiji
For reasons relating to the risk of people damaging or stealing recording instrumentation left in
this area, it is suggested that the site is not used by the LTBP.
vii. River Malagarasi - onshore at Gauging Station 4A9
It is unfortunate that this station is likely to be inaccessible by road from Kigoma in the wet
season. Otherwise, it is recommended that the existing cableway for current metering be used
for that purpose, and for the collection (by rope and bucket?) of samples for water and
suspended sediment analysis and quantification across what is a reasonably wide river stretch
(120 m plus).
viii. Luiche and Malagarasi deltas - offshore
It is suggested that however difficult it is likely to be, that some work is done towards
quantifying particulate and solute inputs to Lake Tanganyika from the much larger of these
two rivers - the Malagarasi. The observations made in August 1996 at least, suggest too, that
the deltaic area harbours diverse assemblages of fish, zoobenthos and both emergent and
submerged hydrophytes; it is likely that a rich microflora and fauna is associated with these
plants, but the LTBP should investigate this to establish the actual situation.
ix. Mahale Mountains National Park
Even ignoring scientific reasons for investigating situations of relevance to the `Pollution'
`Sediment Pollution' and `Biodiversity' Special Studies, it is suggested that this very special
`pristine' area be included. The area is one of the remotest from any of the 4 main project
centres presently envisaged. However, the keenness of the Park staff to be involved,
combined with a resourcing strategy recommended for Gombe (see above), could easily
accommodate valuable echo-sounding, river gauging and associated chemical and biodiversity
work here.
6.3 Zaire
This mission visited only one institution in Zaire (CRH, Uvira) but plainly, if and when the
current security situation in Zaire improves, every effort should be made to explore the
potential for collaborating with other institutions too. This should include NGOs as well as
GOs that exist in the enormous area of Lake Tanganyika that lies within this country and
especially over the astounding length of land-water interface.
6.3.1 Centre Recherche de la Hydrobiologique d'Uvira
In spite of the ongoing debate on whether Uvira or Kalemie is to be the main base for LTBP,
activities in Zaire, there are numerous reasons for resourcing the latter station: e.g. a very
accommodating and effective Director; ample space for both scientific work and an
environmental education centre; a significant amount of field and laboratory equipment on
which to build, although much of this must be repaired, and e.g. batteries and spare bulbs and
other parts must be purchased. The possibility of providing a meteorological station at Uvira
should be considered.
On quite a different front, the PCU/NRI must arrange for LTBP staff to pass into and out of
the lake countries with considerably greater ease than that experienced by the present mission
During the relatively short tour of the laboratories (as against lengthy discussions with the
scientists round the table), few major equipment items were evident. What is more, most of
these were defunct, although for want of a reliable power supply, or small replacement parts
such as bulbs, fuses, batteries. Examples are an `Indesit' freezer-refrigerator'; a `Yamato
DN-42' constant temperature oven; a `Van der Heyden' drying oven; and an `Aquarius'
G5-18 water still.
6.4 Zambia
6.4.1 Department of Fisheries, Mpulungu
Department of Fisheries, Mpulungu
The laboratory staff at Mpulungu have substantial analytical experience and have benefited in
both laboratory facilities and training from their association with the LTR project. It is
recommended that the Fisheries Laboratory be the principal site for the limnological and
biological measurements of the Zambian waters of the lake. The activities of the station as a
whole are severely curtailed by the present financial restrictions and it is proposed that the
LTBP strengthens the Department and draws as fully as possible on the experience of the
present staff.
The proposed changes in laboratory layout and the additional facilities suggested will result
in a substantial increase in, and a more effective use of, bench space. It will also facilitate the
adoption of the more traditional methods of analysis that are recommended. As suggested by
this mission for other laboratories which are to be being strengthened by the LTBP, the re-
introduction of the more conventional and sustainable chemical analytical methods (involving
gravimetry, titrations etc.) will require training programmes. These could be located at
Mpulungu and/or Kigoma. However, the `Hach' kits should be retained for field work and for
cross-checking the results with the traditional laboratory-based methods.
The modifications proposed for the laboratory complex (primarily extra benches and shelving;
more electronic points; and the installation of a fume cupboard and air-conditioning) should be
put in train a.s.a.p. The resources needed to resume routine measurements of relevance to the
LTBP must be provided. This must also incorporate a shift in analytical practice from one
relying almost entirely on `Hach' type apparatus methodology. The 9 sets of equipment
items identified as being of particular importance to the strengthening of the laboratory,
should be purchased and air-conditioning should be seriously considered for the
library/computing room; this is especially important in view of the fact that we are also
recommending that a more powerful desk-top computer than those already present is
provided -in order to mount a wider range of database software and access to CD ROM-based
literature searcher.
A functional radio is a first priority for the RV `Silver Shoal' along with provision of cooking
and toilet facilities. The motorised (anchor) which must be repaired, and the present sampling
winch should be replaced with a more substantial one. We recommend that an inflatable craft
engines are `seaworthy'. We still have to ascertain whether it is worthwhile mending the
present (3) `banana boats'.
6.4.2 Food and Drug Control Laboratory, Ministry of Health, Lusaka
The co-ordinators of the Special Studies on `Pollution' and on `Sediment Pollution' must
decide soon. to what extent this laboratory might be better than TPRI (Arusha) and more
convenient, for analysing pesticides in samples collected in the Zambia (i.e. `deep southern')
sector of the lake. The general consensus prevailing at present, is that while Zambian
institution may have little first-hand experience of analysing limnological materials such as
fish tissue and e.g. plankton concentrates, they are well-qualified in terms of overall
laboratory practice. What is more, their experience with soils must be of relevance to
techniques for analysing sediments. The FDCL staff are also very keen to become involved in
the LTBP.
6.4.3 Geological Survey Department
It is suggested that this Department be kept abreast of LTBP developments, with the view to
identifying collaborative practical programmes that are strictly germane to the interests of
(especially) the `Sediment Pollution' Special Study.
6.4.4 National Council for Scientific Research (NCSR), Lusaka
Collaboration between the LTBP and this Council - especially its Water Resource and
Environmental, and the Radio-isotope Research Units - could prove of considerable mutual
value. Its Livestock and Pest Research Centre also expressed an interest in the Lake
Tanganyika project. However, much of the (largely substantial and sophisticated)
instrumentation, in which we would be interested, would need a considerable injection of
funds for repairs, up-grading etc. LTBP personnel will have to make a decision on this, after
we have assessed better the resource needs in the lake region as a whole.
As an example, for the WRERU to measure heavy metal residues in fish and other aquatic
organisms, a significant proportion of its instrumentation would need to be upgraded to
include a graphite furnace; without this, this we cannot achieve the necessary sensitivity
required by the LTBP. In view of the age of the present AA instrument, this option, even if
technically feasible, is not recommended.
6.4.5 University of Zambia (UNZA), Lusaka
As with many of the NCSR units, a number of the UNZA departments are keen to be
involved in the LTBP. Again, for this to transpire, the programme would need also to invest
in the University considerably, primarily by way of equipment maintenance and/or
upgrading. Taking account of this as well as the more or less imminent retirement of key staff
such as Professor Cernek in the Chemistry Department, it is recommended that this
Department is not approached at this stage about involvement in the LTBP.
Contrastingly, it is suggested that the well-equipped (AAS, XRF and XRD) laboratories of
the Departments of Geology and Metallurgy/Mineral Processing are used for LTBP heavy
metal and sediment analysis; moreover, it is recommended that a number of these analyses be
done in conjunction with the Radio-isotope Research Unit of NCSR as part of an
international inter-laboratory AQC programme. Whether the latter materialises, however,
depends on the decisions made in relation to the involvement of the NCSR unit in the LTBP.
It is suggested that Dr Sichingabula of the Department of Geography and Mr Chileshe of the
Dept of Water Affairs be encouraged to put together a programme of compiling river data and
developing a monitoring programme for the Zambian Lake Tanganyika Basin.
We recommend very strongly that LTBP funds are provided to establish what would almost
certainly prove to be a valuable link, with the Physics Department's Environmental Research
Centre. Indeed, without such collaboration it is difficult to see how the LTBP could gain any
reasonable estimates of the inputs of solutes and particulates onto the lake surface. What is
more, the extra instrumentation envisaged - including more computing power -for
strengthening such a venture, is likely to be comparatively minor.
Regardless of specific weaknesses in various university departments, the LTBP must also
consider capitalising on the enormous potential that the universities possess by way of
students - at under-graduate, post-graduate and post-doctoral levels.
6.5 Existing data
6.5.1 LTR data
The major existing datasets on the fisheries and pelagic-zone ecology of Lake Tanganyika are
those assembled by LTR and preceding FAO fisheries projects. These datasets are the
property of the national governments, who participated fully in creating them, and on whose
behalf they were collected. It is recognised that LTR scientists have prior claim to the data for
the purposes of analysis, but it is important that these datasets be made available as soon as
possible to the institutions in the riparian countries that are collaborating with the GEF project
and its special studies. It is normal practice that such data are made available on completion of
project final reports.
It has been established that industrial catch records from the Zambian sector are available as an
unbroken series since 1962 - a valuable dataset.
Action: Formal request from National Co-ordinators to LTR Project Manager for release of all
LTR datasets on completion of the final report. Request to be drafted by PCU/NRI
management team.
6.5.2 Data from Japanese work on the lake.
Japanese scientists and their riparian-country counterparts have assembled a variety of survey
and ecological data and observations. The raw data, in electronic form, seems unlikely to be
available. The Japanese research team, notably Dr Tetsu Sato, have been extremely co-
operative and supportive in the field, and have made available what they have. A full set of
publications, including a forthcoming book on Lake Tanganyika, should be available from
Kyoto University Press, or perhaps through Dr Sato.
Action: SLO and Biodiversity Special Studies Co-ordinators to assemble one copy of this
6.5.3 Data from Speciation in Ancient Lakes teams (SIAL).
The co-operation and assistance of the SIAL group is required to set the Biodiversity field
programme into operation. Their co-operation may also ensure the availability of their data on
distribution and abundance of fishes, molluscs, ostracods etc. This would form an important
input into a GIS system of species distributions around the lake.
The Sediments Special Study Group have already enlisted the assistance of Dr Andy Cohen's
team for research of mutual interest. Similar arrangements should be explored for the Belgian-
based SIAL members (see section on Fieldwork Strategies).
Action: Meeting to be arranged between Biodiversity groups and SIAL members to discuss
acceptable terms and strategies. EHA to initiate contact if required.
6.5.4 Data from Zambian Gillnet survey programme
Fisheries Department in Mpulungu maintain an important series of scientific surveys of
benthic fish communities using gillnets. These have been undertaken in the Nsumbu area at
ten year intervals for 40 years. Summary tables were transferred to computer and analysed by
Martin Pearce, but raw data are still in paper files. The Mpulungu staff hope to transfer this
data to computers in the near future. They also have funds and equipment from the Zambian
Fisheries Dept. to carry out a further survey, comparing benthic fish communities in Chituta
Bay with Nsumbu. This will be carried out early next year. It would be useful to incorporate
this initiative into a wider biodiversity survey.
Action: Biodiversity Special Study to offer assistance with database design and financial
incentive to complete the work rapidly. Assistance with analysis if appropriate.
6.5.5 Ecological/biodiversity, management work done on Gombe Stream NP
An extensive bibliography of work done in Gombe Stream NP is available. Dr Martin Walsh,
NRI, obtained copies of relevant papers on his visit to the park.
Action: SLO to obtain copies to retain in Kigoma, and make a bibliography available to the
Special Studies groups. The Biodiversity Special Studies Group should obtain copies.
6.5.6 Aquarium fish trade
Dr. Bannister's interaction with the aquarium export traders indicate that the responsible
operators with long-term interests in the area are willing to share their data on fish exports,
catches and the results of their monitoring programmes with the project. In addition to their
potential active participatory role, this willingness to make available their data is particularly
encouraging in developing initiatives for sustainable monitoring programmes beyond the
duration of the project.
6.6.7 Data from National Biodiversity Surveys
There are GEF-funded national biodiversity inventory projects operating in both Tanzania and
Zambia and possibly Zaire. The Tanzania country database is being set up by Mr Ron
Botterweg, FAO.
6.6.8 Hydrological and Meteorological data
Clearly a large amount of data exists in government archives of variable quality and intensity.
It is suggested that a thorough assessment of these data be made
APPENDICES
APPENDIX I: TERMS OF REFERENCE OF VISIT
Pollution Control and other measures to Protect Biodiversity in Lake
Tanganyika (RAF/92/G32). Special Studies: `Pollution of International
Waters', `Sediment Discharge and Its Consequences' and Related
biodiversity studies
Terms of Reference for country visits by project technical advisors -Natural Resources
Institute (NRI), Institute of Freshwater Ecology (IFE) University of East Anglia
(UEA) and University of Dundee (UoD)
1. Introduction
The task of this mission will be to make a practical assessment to follow up the baseline review
and draw up plans for detailed studies to be initiated in Stage II. The studies are to be conducted
by suitable local institutions, with technical support, supervision and co-ordination by the
NRI/IFE/UEA/UoD Consortium project team. The mission will determine which institutions can
most suitably undertake the studies in each country, enlisting their support in setting specific
objectives, development of terms of reference and implementation of different elements of the
special studies, also considering contractual arrangements.
This visit follows for the Inception Workshop of the project where the principal objectives of each
special study were agreed and a number of Institutions were identified which may play a role in
the study. This material has been compiled in an Inception Report and this will be available by the
period of the visit and will summarise the priorities of the special studies which form the basis of
this mission (`Pollution of International Waters' and `Sediment Discharge and Its
Consequences')
The Inception Workshop endorsed proposals for assessment at selected sites in each country, to
be undertaken. The workshop also identified the need to incorporate `pristine'
unimpacted/unpolluted sites in the surveys, and take account of the situations prevailing in open
and in-shore waters, including the water column, near-bottom waters and sediments and other
substrates.
The mission will comprise Graeme Patterson (NRI), Tony Bailey-Watts (IFE), Robert Duck
(UoD) and Chris Foxall (UEA). The mission is likely to span 3-4 weeks in August 1996.
Table 1: The organisations proposed by the national delegates for involvement in the
work.
BURUNDI
TANZANIA
ZAIRE
ZAMBIA
m ainly Bujum bura:
m ainly Kigom a and Dar
Uvira or Kalem ie?
m ainly Mpulungu and
**************
es Salaam :
**************
Lusaka
The University of
*************
Centre de Recherche en
*************
Burundi - Chem istry
Ministry of Water,
Science Naturelle
UNZA
Departm ent
Environm ent and
The University of
National Council of
The University of
Minerals
Kinshasa: Institut
Scientific Research,
Burundi - Biology
TAFIRI
Superiere Pedagogie,
Lusaka (especially for
Departm ent
NEMC
Bukavu.
Analytical Quality
University of Burundi,
University of Dar-es-
Centre Recherche
Control)
Department de Earth
Salaam
d'Hydrobiologique
ECZ
Sciences
TANAPA
Food and Drug
FAO FINNIDA LTR
Department of Wildlife
Laboratory
station (plus links with
Department of
Departm ent of Water
Uvira)
Fisheries
Affairs
INECN
Frontier Tanzania
Fisheries Department
Institut Département
(NGO)
National Parks and
des Eaux, Pêche et
Wildlife Department
Pisciculture
Ministry of Water
CRRHA
Soil conservation unit
IGEBU
of Dept. of Irrigation
and Land Husbandry
2. Terms of Reference
All members will visit the 4 countries, i.e. Burundi, Tanzania, Zaire and Zambia, although not
necessarily the same institutions and locations (See Table 1). Also, because TBW has visited
Bujumbura (Burundi) and Kigoma (Tanzania), perhaps extra special efforts be made to assess
first the situation in Zaire and Zambia. In so doing, the mission will:
i)
visit the institutions identified above, and investigate their capacity - with respect to human
resources, infra-structure and equipment - and identify those institutions that will collaborate with
the project and the specific individuals that will be assigned in the lake basin area.
ii)
where possible in the time available, identify the nature and scale of logistic problems in
each country's lake sector that have a bearing on the sampling schedules envisaged, and how
these `aspirations' relate to `practicability'. Appendix I which outlines the results of, and
priorities identified by the Inception Workshop, includes details of sampling areas proposed.
iii)
propose arrangements for execution of all stages of the work, i.e.:
· planning of field and laboratory work
· assembling equipment for travel to sampling sites; sample collection, preservation and storage
· field recording
· laboratory analysis
· data analysis
· interpretation and reporting of the results.
iv)
hold discussions with National Co-ordinators to consider their ToR in relation to the above,
and assist in planning, education and training needs relating to the work within the studies.
v)
develop country strategies for all aspects of the studies.
vi)
identify the likely requirements for technical assistance, training and supervision from
vii)
review the interim findings with the PCU at a team meeting to be held provisionally in
Kigoma (Tanzania).
viii) provide National Co-ordinators (via the PCU in Dar) and NRI with full reports detailing the
findings of the mission and recommendations for the conduct of the Pollution and Sediment
Discharge Special Studies.
Departure dates from UK as near as possible to 1 August 1996 should be arranged forthwith.
Full reporting to NRI should be complete by the end of September 1996. Precise travel schedules
and meetings will be worked out as contacts with the respective national institutions are
established.
3. Notes - for the PCU
A number of tasks need to be attended to, by the PCU in preparation for this mission. It should:
i) identify specific individuals and gather the contact numbers for the relevant national
institutions
ii) notify the National Co-ordinators/local institutions contact persons, of the objectives and timing
of the proposed visits
iii) translate the ToR into French
iv) investigate the possibility that Sarah Oume-Bottelberge could join the mission?
v) clarify the logistics for the journey, local transport schedules, the possible need for local travel
permits, and arrangements for provision of transport or funds to secure it.
vi) consider the financial mechanisms for disbursal of funds for Special Study sub-contracts with
national institutions, and clarification of procedures to be followed for the negotiation of contracts
with local institutions
4. Transportation
It is essential that this mission includes visits to all four riparian countries including visits to
Kigoma, Bujumbura, Mpulungu and Uvira (or Kalemie) on the lakeshore. Further visits to Dar-
es-Salaam, Kinshasa and Lusaka may also be necessary in order to contact key personnel at
various government institutions. It is suggested that the PCU investigate hiring the `Tanganyika
Explorer' for at least two weeks during the period of the visit (latter part of August 1996) to
allow visits to the lakeshore stations. If this period of hire can be included with visits made by
the PCU and the Biodiversity special study then this could be very cost effective. It is
suggested that if this is possible that the four national co-ordinators (or their nominated
representatives) also be included in this part of the visit. A period onboard the `Tanganyika
Explorer' will also allow key the key members of the Special Studies to become familiar with
the capabilities of the ship and would also allow the viewing of the key areas of the lake.
APPENDIX II: PROFORMA/ 'AIDE-MEMOIRE' USED FOR RECORDING
INFORMATION GAINED DURING VISITS TO INSTITUTIONS AND THE
ASSESSMENT OF RESOURCES.
General comments: We are about to embark on our tours of the LT region with the main view
to assessing what is already available (and as importantly, what is not) as regards resources
needed to execute the Special Studies on Biodiversity, Fishing Practices and Biodiversity,
Sediment Pollution and its Impacts on Biodiversity, and Pollution in International Waters and
its Effects on Biodiversity. This document is an aide memoire aimed at reducing the chances
of our forgetting/overlooking issues on which we need to focus during these tours, and our
visits to institutions and discussions with personnel. While not a major concern of these
trips, the 'nature' (aspect, accessibility, sampling gear needed, etc.) of potential sampling sites
should be assessed and noted (photograph/s?) - where time allows.
The situations/items that we need to assess/count are grouped below into 6 categories. Note
that this extensive list represents something like the 'ideal' situation we hope to achieve; it is
likely that rather few of the items listed will be found in the majority of the institutions we visit.
Also, some information may be lacking altogether. We will thus be commenting on relatively
few of the items - and even then, we need only brief, though reasonably accurate, notes ( for
example, the 'condition' of a room, the numbers of people, the model and make of a piece of
equipment).
INSTITUTION:
1. MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE - BUILDINGS
Proximity to lake/sampling sites:
Proximity to airport:
Proximity to railway:
Dimensions:
Roof type/condition:
No. rooms: reception/office:
lab.,wet:
lab. dry:
meeting:
library/writing:
Benches:
Chairs:
Shelving:
Racks:
Cupboards:
Fume cupboard:
No. windows:
Power supply:
No. sockets:
Emergency power supply - compressor:
Surge-protection/current stabilisation:
Water supply:
Air-conditioning:
Workshops:
Garage/boat compound/store:
Fuel store:
'Safe' chemical store:
First-Aid facilities:
Protective clothing/life-jackets:
Security - general:
2. PERSONNEL
(Cleaners/ Drivers/ Security/ Boat handlers/ Field operatives/ Technicians/
Researchers/ Administrative/ Office typists/ telephonists)
Total number of staff:
Information on individual staff:
Name:
Grade:
Tel:
Fax:
E-mail:
Availability and on what appointment basis: casual, temporary/term, 'permanent'. Experience:
Qualifications:
c.v. collected?:
Name:
Grade:
Tel:
Fax:
E-mail:
Availability and on what appointment basis: casual, temporary/term, 'permanent'. Experience:
Qualifications:
c.v. collected?:
Name:
Grade:
Tel:
Fax:
E-mail:
Availability and on what appointment basis: casual, temporary/term, 'permanent'. Experience:
Qualifications:
c.v. collected?:
Name:
Grade: Tel:
Fax:
E-mail:
Availability and on what appointment basis: casual, temporary/term, 'permanent'. Experience:
Qualifications:
cv collected?:
3. FIELD EQUIPMENT
Vehicles: age, condition and availability:
Maps:
GPS:
Anchors and ropes:
Waterproof note-pads and pens/pencils/field tape recorder (personal 'memo'):
Cameras:
Fishing gear:
Spring/electronic balance/field scales:
Ruler:
Dissection kits:
Fish scale envelopes:
Discrete depth/profiling sampling gear (winches, cables, ropes) and sample containers (inc.
polybags), fixers/preservatives for:
water and associated organisms inc. fish/tissue:
fine sediment ....... ditto
coarse sediment.....ditto
stones........ditto
pebbles.........ditto
rocks.......ditto
cliffs.........ditto
macrophytic vegetation......ditto
animals (inc. crocs and hippos with astoundingly diverse epizoic assemblages)
Dark/cool boxes - dri-ice:
Discrete depth/profiling field probes:
temperature, dissolved O2, conductivity, perHaps, sampling depth:
Echo-sounding gear:
Sun-protection awning/canopy:
Field filtration kits:
4. LABORATORY EQUIPMENT - mainly furniture, as glass- and polythene-ware and
many equipment items including microscopes are listed in the Baseline Review on
'Pollution and its effects on biodiversity'.
Still - distilled water:
Freezers:
Refrigerators:
Ovens:
Hot-plates:
Balances ?sensitivity:
Fluorometer (for field and lab use:
Spectrophotometer:
Aquaria:
Photomicrographic apparatus/image-capture facility:
Glass- and polythene-ware - see separate lists:
Laboratory tissues:
5. DOCUMENTATION
Books:
Reports:
Journals:
Re-prints:
Manuals for chemical analyses;
ditto for organism identification:
Archived data:
6. OFFICE:
Communications:
Phone - Fax - E-mail - Radio.
Hardware:
p/cs:
typewriters:
printers:
paper:
pens, pencils etc:
Software:
For leaflets, special issues: Desk-top publishing facility
For routine reporting: e.g. WordPerfect/Word for Windows: Excel/Lotus/HYDATA: Sigma-
Plot or equivalent:
APPENDIX III : ENGLISH-FRENCH SUMMARY OF BASELINE REVIEW ON
POLLUTION IN INTERNATIONAL WATERS AND ITS EFFECTS ON
BIODIVERSITY IN LAKE TANGANYIKA
To reduce the bulk of this draft document this summary is not included in the draft version.
This material is available in the respective baseline review.
APPENDIX IV : ENGLISH-FRENCH SUMMARY OF BASELINE REVIEW ON
SEDIMENT POLLUTION AND ITS IMPACTS ON BIODIVERSITY IN LAKE
TANGANYIKA
To reduce the bulk of this draft document this summary is not included in the this version.
This material is available in the respective baseline review.
APPENDIX V: LTR STAFF
The national staff contributing to the different aspects of the `Programme for basic
monitoring' at LTR Stations. (Names in italics denotes those persons responsible for
the activity at a station).
BUJUMBURA
Hydrodynamics
Mr Kakogozo and Mr Nikomeze
Limnology
Mr Tumba, Mr Nyamushahu, Mr Tshibangu, Mr Butoyi, Mr Ndimunzigo, Mr
Nikomeze and Mr Gahungu
Zooplankton
Mr Bwebwa and Mr Nyamushahu
Fish biology
Mr Nikomeze, Mr Butoyi, Mr Ndimunzigo, Mr Tumba, Mr Nyamushahu and Mr
Gahungu
Fish statistics
Mr Nikomeze, Mr Ndimunzigo, Mr Gahungu and Mr Tumba
KARONDA
Fish biology
Mr Nibigira
KALEMIE
Hydrodynamics
Mr Detsimas
Fish biology
Mr Mundula, Mr Chalula and Mr Kavula
MOBA
Fish biology
Mr Mpweto
UVIRA
Fish biology
Mr Bahane and Mr Mbemba
Fish statistics
Mr Mambona and Mr Kwetuenda
Zooplankton
Mr Bwembwa
Chemistry
Mr Tshibangu and Mr Kimbadi
Sedimentation
Mr Kahindo and Mr Mwenyemali
KIGOMA
Hydrodynamics
Mr Kihakwi
Limnology
Mr Chitamwebwa (Director), Mr Lyoba and Mrs Lyoba
Zooplankton
Mr Kalangali (Deputy Director), Mr Muhoza and Mr Kadula
Fish biology
Mr Katonda, Mr Kissaka and Mr Kashushu
Fish statistics
Mr Kissaka, Mr Katonda and Mr Kashushu
MPULUNGU
Hydrodynamics
Mr Makassa, Mr Kaoma and Mr Sichivu
Limnology
Mr Mwape, Mr Lukwessa, Mr Ngandu and Mr Shapola
Zooplankton
Mr Zulu, Mr Sichivu and Mr Kaoma
Fish Biology
Mr Milindi, Mr Mwape, Mr Kabakwe, Mr Mwenda, Mr Chomba, Mr Syapila, Mr
Skaona and Mr Banda
Fish statistics
Mr Mwape, Mr Milindi, Mr Kabakwe, Mr Mwenda, Mr Chomba, Mr Syapila, Mr
Skaona and Mr Banda
APPENDIX VI: REPORTS OBTAINED
Anon. (1996). Reconstruction and development programme (RDP) for refugees affected areas
in Kigoma (sic) - Short term action plan and project profiles. Office of the Prime
Minister/Office of the Regional Commissioner, P.O. Box 125 Kigoma. January, 1996
[Section 4.3.2. Artisanal Fishery, pp 56-58 - proposed 3 year fishery project
implemented by FAO to buy fishing gear and distribute it on credit & other
support for artisanal fishery - to be channelled though Fisheries Dept., Kigoma]
Chipungu, P.M. & Kunda, D.M. (eds) (1994). State of Environment in Zambia.
Environmental Council of Zambia, Lusaka. 116 pp.
Dodman, T. & Taylor, V. (1995). African Waterfowl Census 1995. IWRB, Slimbridge, U.K.,
192 pp.
Kigoma Regional Socio-economic development Profile/Brief. Joint Publ. of The Planning
Commission, Regional Rural Development Division, Dar es Salaam and The Regional
Commissioner's Office, Planning Dept., Kigoma
(a similar document exists for Rukwa Region)
NORAD (1993). NORAD-funded Integrated Rural Development Programmes in Tanzania.
KIDEP - Kigoma region & RUDEP - Rukwa region. Royal Norwegian Embassy, Dar es
Salaam.
Suontausta, T. (1992). Fisheries of Lake Tanganyika in a socio-economic context:
management or adaptation? MSc thesis, Norwegian College of Fisheries Science, Univ. of
Tromso.
UNDP (1993). Institutional support for the protection of East African Biodiversity
UNO/RAF/1006/GEF Project Inception Report, 1993.