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Mangroves in Benin, West Africa: threats, uses and conservation opportunities

Author

Listed:
  • Oscar Teka

    (University of Abomey-Calavi)

  • Laurent G. Houessou

    (University of Abomey-Calavi)

  • Bruno A. Djossa

    (University of Abomey-Calavi
    National University of Porto-Novo)

  • Yvonne Bachmann

    (J.W. Goethe University)

  • Madjidou Oumorou

    (University of Abomey-Calavi
    University of Abomey-Calavi)

  • Brice Sinsin

    (University of Abomey-Calavi)

Abstract

Mangrove ecosystems constitute valuable resource all over the world. They provide habitats for flora and fauna species, protect the coast against erosion and supply various products for local communities. Currently, mangroves are overused and degraded. Up to now, perceptions of local communities on the dynamic of mangrove forest and their acceptable participation forms for mangroves restoration have not been entirely understood. This study was undertaken in order to assess human pressure on mangroves from user perspective and to provide baseline information for its sustainable management in three districts (Grand-Popo, Ouidah and Sèmè-Kpodji) located in the coastal area of Benin. Structured and semi-structured questionnaire surveys regarding perceptions of mangrove forest dynamic, causes of mangrove forest degradation, indigenous restoration strategies and forms of participation were conducted among randomly selected informants. It has been reported that Beninese mangrove ecosystems supply timber and non-timber forest products, rich fishing grounds and salt for local communities. Local communities are aware of the need of restoring and ensuring sustainable conservation of mangrove ecosystems. Dominant measures for restoration and conservation indicated by informants for mangrove users include the reintroduction of traditional rules, avoidance of uncontrolled settlements, planting of mangrove trees, planting alternative fuelwood, use of solar energy for salt production and creation of alternative income generating activities. Planting mangrove trees and alternative cooking energy sources supplying to local communities to avoid mangrove destruction are urgent needs for the coastal area of Benin.

Suggested Citation

  • Oscar Teka & Laurent G. Houessou & Bruno A. Djossa & Yvonne Bachmann & Madjidou Oumorou & Brice Sinsin, 2019. "Mangroves in Benin, West Africa: threats, uses and conservation opportunities," Environment, Development and Sustainability: A Multidisciplinary Approach to the Theory and Practice of Sustainable Development, Springer, vol. 21(3), pages 1153-1169, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:endesu:v:21:y:2019:i:3:d:10.1007_s10668-017-0075-x
    DOI: 10.1007/s10668-017-0075-x
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    1. Kanokporn Swangjang & Phitwalan Kornpiphat, 2021. "Does ecotourism in a Mangrove area at Klong Kone, Thailand, conform to sustainable tourism? A case study using SWOT and DPSIR," Environment, Development and Sustainability: A Multidisciplinary Approach to the Theory and Practice of Sustainable Development, Springer, vol. 23(11), pages 15960-15985, November.
    2. Gnansounou, Setondé Constant & Salako, Kolawolé Valère & Visée, Corentin & Dahdouh-Guebas, Farid & Glèlè Kakaï, Romain & Kestemont, Patrick & Henry, Sabine, 2024. "The role of local deities and traditional beliefs in promoting the sustainable use of mangrove ecosystems," Forest Policy and Economics, Elsevier, vol. 160(C).
    3. Setondé Constant Gnansounou & Kolawolé Valère Salako & Alberta Ama Sagoe & Precious Agbeko Dzorgbe Mattah & Denis Worlanyo Aheto & Romain Glèlè Kakaï, 2022. "Mangrove Ecosystem Services, Associated Threats and Implications for Wellbeing in the Mono Transboundary Biosphere Reserve (Togo-Benin), West-Africa," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(4), pages 1-20, February.

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