Stakeholders’ perceptions of coastal development in relation to marine protected areas

This study assessed stakeholders’ perceptions of coastal development associated with an MPA in southern Mozambique. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews and focus groups with 31 individuals representing five stakeholder groups.

As marine protected areas (MPAs) face various coastal threats, including development, their incorporation into integrated coastal management (ICM) is essential. Stakeholder participation is a major, albeit poorly addressed, component of the integration of MPAs into ICM. Driven by shared interests and values, stakeholders can signal when coastal activities become unacceptable according to good governance principles of MPAs and ICM. This study assessed stakeholders’ perceptions of coastal development associated with an MPA in southern Mozambique. Stakeholders acknowledged the connection of MPAs with ICM at a sophisticated level, identifying coastal development threats potentially affecting the MPA, and proposing mitigation strategies. The results of this study confirmed the qualities of stakeholder participation to complement MPA management and offer guidance on ICM.

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• Stakeholders’ perceptions of coastal development in relation to marine protected areas