AI and Ethnolinguistic Preservation: Documenting Abureni Vocabulary on Water Hyacinth Infestation in Kugbo Creek
Keywords:
Water Hyacinth, AI Tools, Abureni Vocabulary, Niger Delta, EthnolinguisticAbstract
Water hyacinth (Pontederia crassipes) infestation in freshwater bodies has emerged as a critical environmental challenge, particularly within the Niger Delta’s inland waterways in Nigeria. Kugbo Creek, a vital waterway in this region, sustains traditional livelihoods such as fishing, boat transportation, lumbering, and farming, serving as an economic lifeline for local communities. However, the proliferation of invasive species like water hyacinth threatens native aquatic ecosystems, disrupts socio-economic activities, and impedes navigation. This study explores the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to document and analyse Abureni vocabulary associated with water hyacinth infestation in Kugbo Creek. By leveraging Natural Language Processing (NLP) techniques, it
seeks to preserve the linguistic heritage of the Abureni people while providing actionable insights for ecological interventions. This interdisciplinary approach highlights the transformative potential of AI in bridging language and environmental studies, emphasizing its role in amplifying indigenous perspectives on pressing ecological challenges. The findings advocate for collaborative, sustainable solutions by stakeholders to mitigate the water hyacinth menace and foster a deeper understanding of the interconnected ethnolinguistic and ecological dynamics within the Abureni communities along Kugbo Creek.
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