Could a miracle grass solve Lake Victoria's problems?

Vetiver grass, native to tropical areas of Asia, is helping Ugandanfarmers protect Lake Victoria and restore degraded farmland. Its roots grow up to 1.5 meters deep – preventing erosion and retaining water, while the grass itself is resistant to wildfires. Farmers use vetiver to reduce runoff, make mulch, protect crops, and produce cooking briquettes. It also yields fragrant oil for export, with the leftover plant matter used to generate energy and the nutrient-rich ashes returned to farmers as organic fertilizer. Environmentalist Ali Tebandeke has trained over 4,000 farmers in sustainable practices with the plant and aims to reach one million people. Vetiver is resilient, non-invasive, and essential for climate-smart agriculture and environmental restoration.