Paper short abstract:

MPAs in developing countries have difficulties taking into account the social dimension and adapt to the local context. A related example is the case of Joal Fadiouth MPA where formal governance failed to consider cultural and traditional uses, as well as involving broader stakeholder diversity.

Paper long abstract:

This study analyzes governance challenges of the Joal Fadiouth Marine Protected Area (MPA) in Senegal to identify constraints for ensuring biodiversity conservation while contributing socio-economic benefits for coastal populations. We provide a mixed-method empirical analysis that combines participatory mapping, focus groups interviews, and individual semi-structured interviews from almost 200 individuals in various stakeholder groups. Findings indicate two divergent governance realities: (1) a formal co-management institution governing a defined space with specific rules including direct and indirect stakeholder participation, and (2) traditional uses and governance norms, where cultural practices contribute to the protection of spawning areas. Importantly, findings indicate that traditional authorities, as well as migrants, are not represented in the decision-making body, which undermines its legitimacy with local populations. We conclude the formal governance largely failed to consider the broad spectrum of existing cultural and traditional uses, as well as to include a broader stakeholder diversity who use and influence the resources such as religious circles and women. As a result, the formal zoning and rules do not match local needs, creating perceptions of illegitimacy among local residents, leading to adaptive strategies for income gains such as corruption and lack of co-management investment as a means of discontent.