Water hyacinth has been largely known for its destructive effects within the lake region led by Kisumu county.
The free-floating perennial aquatic plant which occupies a large surface of Lake Victoria has been branded a menace as it has harboured transport and fishing activities especially on the shores of the lake.
The effects of the plant have been felt widely because besides harbouring fishing activities which are the most depended upon economic activities, it threatens the survival of aquatic animals such as fish; which is as a source of food to many in the region and over.
However, many have failed to see the environmental benefits of the plant.
"Eichhornia crassipes" as it is identified by its scientific name, is considered the most productive plant on earth as it yields more than 200 tons of dry matter per hectare per year under normal conditions.
First and foremost, the stem of the crop contains fibre which can be used to make rope in a process in which its stalk is shredded lengthwise to expose it and then left to dry for several days.
The finished rope is then treated with chemicals to prevent it from rotting.
The ropes and fibres can then be used to make baskets and matting for domestic use among other uses.
Research conducted by students in science and engineering fairs shows that fermentation of water hyacinth using yeast enzyme can yield ethanol, with low alcoholic content.
Charcoal briquettes are also an idea researchers have deemed good and it entails producing charcoal dust from the pyrolysis of water hyacinth.
From an agricultural point of view, water hyacinth can be used to feed fish in ponds, and also as green manure to beef up soil fertility.
All the above-mentioned uses of water hyacinth play a crucial role in dealing with the rapidly expanding carpets of water hyacinth in Lake Victoria.
With that in mind, the county of Kisumu can earn and at the same time curb the menace.
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