Co-Management in Small-Scale Fisheries: A Synthesis of Southern and West African Experiences

Abstract

This presentation summarizes the findings from eight African countries where case studies of co-management arrangements in artisanal fisheries have been undertaken during the period 1996-97. The countries concerned are Benin, Cote d'Ivoire, Malawi, Mozambique, Senegal, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe. In most of the cases co- management represents a new approach to fisheries management. In some cases, it has only been applied within the last 3-5 years and in a few it is merely being considered as an option. The comparison of cases at this early stage gives an indication as to what appears to be the critical issues in the planning and implementation of fisheries co- management arrangements in the African context.