Lokina, Razack B.; Mwanjela, G.
Description:
This paper explores the debate on participatory approach by presenting evidence from the local
communities practices living within the marine protected area in Tanzania (Mnazi Bay RuvumaEstuary
Marine Park). Five out of fifteen villages that exist in Mnazi Bay Marine Park were
selected for this study after consultation with the park authority. Stratified sampling of villages
was conducted based on the location from the Indian Ocean: three villages located close to the
sea (sea front villages) and two villages located far from the sea (inland villages). Both
quantitative and qualitative data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires, focus
group discussions, participant observation and interviews. The findings are presented using the
local community narratives on livelihoods strategies and participation in decision-making
processes to highlight the challenges of a participatory conservation approach in marine
resources management within MPAs and also using regression analysis to explain the factors
determining their participation. A Logit regression model is run. Results show that participatory
approach in MPAs is a challenging phenomenon due to existence of multifaceted layers in
marine resources management and use. These layers exist in terms of power struggle to manage
resources and extract benefits associated with marine resources between state and local
communities. This power struggle tends to undermine the ability of local communities to use and
manage marine resources, threatening the attainment of the main objective of establishing the
MPAs that’s improving the livelihood of the adjacent communities and improving the resources.