EAC Declares May 21 as Lake Victoria Day Starting 2026

Kisumu to Host Inaugural Celebration Focused on Restoration and Sustainability

Kisumu, May 19, 2025 – The East African Community (EAC) has officially declared May 21 as Lake Victoria Day, with the first commemoration set to take place in 2026. This landmark move aims to promote the sustainable management of Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest freshwater lake and a vital resource for millions in the region.

Theme: “Revive and Thrive”

Themed “Revive and Thrive,” the inaugural event will serve as a platform to rally communities, scientists, policymakers, and environmentalists around efforts to protect, restore, and sustainably utilize Lake Victoria and its ecosystems.

“Lake Victoria is not only a shared natural heritage but a lifeline for millions. This day will focus on restoring its ecological health and ensuring its longevity for future generations,” said an EAC Secretariat official.

Environmental Concerns Prompt Regional Action

Lake Victoria, which spans Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, has been under increasing environmental pressure due to pollution, overfishing, invasive species, and climate change. The declaration of Lake Victoria Day is seen as a significant step in mobilizing cross-border cooperation to address these challenges head-on.

Regional Stakeholders to Lead Activities

The 2026 event will feature lake clean-ups, scientific symposiums, public awareness campaigns, cultural showcases, and community dialogues. EAC partner states are expected to organize simultaneous events along the lake’s shores to raise awareness and drive action at local and regional levels.

A Symbol of Regional Unity and Shared Responsibility

Lake Victoria Day also underscores the shared responsibility of EAC member states in conserving natural resources and advancing regional integration through environmental diplomacy.

Looking Ahead

The EAC hopes the annual event will become a fixture in the region’s environmental calendar, fostering long-term partnerships and investments in lake restoration, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods for communities dependent on the lake.