Mangrove management at Moanda in the South Atlantic: Addressing socio-cultural and environmental challenges DR Congo

Marine protected areas play a major environmental, economic and social role, but non-compliance with regulations and over-exploitation of resources are contributing to mangrove degradation. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Moanda mangroves are under serious threat, despite their protected heritage status. This study examines the persistence of anthropic pressures and the opportunities offered to local populations by international protection. The aim is to assess the level of threats to the Moanda mangrove marine park and the benefits for local communities. The results show that mangroves continue to be heavily affected by human activities, while local populations derive few benefits from the current management system. For example, 87.6% of local residents claim free access to the park, whose resources are their main source of livelihood, despite the existing institutional framework. This situation undermines the conservation of this ecosystem and highlights the impact of irrational human practices in this fragile area.

Pagina's: 88, Paperback, Our Knowledge Publishing