Fieldtrip Deltares teams 2014

The Deltares business case concerns the water hyacinth. The water hyacinth is Africa’s most invasive water weed. The weed hampers water extraction, blocks or clogs irrigation canals and hydro dams, and makes fishing and travel across waters difficult or impossible. The weed quickly lowers water quality and leads to an increase in water borne diseases (e.g., malaria, bilharzias, and most likely filariasis). A case that needs to be solved in an innovative way!

To solve the business case, the Deltares teams have investigated what the main causes are for the intensive growth of the water hyacinth. This enabled them to indicate the main stakeholders. Talking with all stakeholders and researching their motives and perspectives on removing the plants was a first step. The next step is bringing them together to create a strategic approach.

A fieldtrip to Ada Foah and Big Ada, a two hour drive from Accra, enabled the teams to talk to the fishermen who suffer from this plant. The teams have spoken to members of a local community and the harbour.

The mixed Dutch-Ghanaian team once again proved it’s added value; some Ghanaian team members were able to speak the local Twi language and translate. Furthermore they were well informed about the Ghanaian economic needs and possibilities.

Of course the teams went to see the water hyacinth as well. Fishermen took the teams with them in their boats and showed them the plants.