RUBAVU – Scientists from USA, Europe and Africa attending a workshop on physical and biogeochemical status of Lake Kivu want Rwanda to establish observatory centre to monitor the changes of the active volcanoes that are a threat in the region.

The workshop is meant to examine the present knowledge of the physical and biogeochemical status of the Lake Kivu.

"The problem is that we do have gases entering the lake as Carbon dioxide, Surfer dioxide and Methane gas all into a stable lake,” Dr George Kling of the University of Michigan said, adding that there is need for more research on the lake.

According to Dr Cindy Ebiger, gases that enter into the lakes as a result of earthquake or heavy rains are concentrated at depth. The gases can then be released posing danger to fish or even the community around.

The scientists also said there is need for coordination of efforts for funding and training of African scientists to develop the permanent volcano observatories, regional geodetic and seismic networks, and lake monitoring stations.

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