Conservation and Management

The conservation status of this species has not been evaluated yet. It has been present in some areas for at least a century, with a wider range known now than when it was described. Thus its status is likely to be Not globally threatened (Least Concern), until there is a population assessment.

Ruvu Weaver has a relatively small range, as does Kilombero Weaver (Ploceus burnieri), which is restricted to the Kilombero River 150 km upstream from Lake Tagalala. Both these species are surrounded by large populations of the African Golden-Weaver (Ploceus subaureus) (found throughout eastern Tanzania), which in future may compete with the former two species (1 Oschadleus, H. D., S. Andersson, and N. E. Baker (2021). History and biology of the reassigned Ruvu Weaver Ploceus holoxanthus. Scopus 41(1):1–12. Close ).

Habitat Loss and Degradation

One potential threat to the species is the building of a planned reservoir some 140 km upstream of Mtoni, to provide a constant water supply to Dar es Salaam. This could result in a reduction of suitable riverine habitat (1 Oschadleus, H. D., S. Andersson, and N. E. Baker (2021). History and biology of the reassigned Ruvu Weaver Ploceus holoxanthus. Scopus 41(1):1–12. Close ).