Exploitation of Lagoon Water Bodies and Conflicts of Use: the Case of The Lagoons of Grand-Lahou (Cote D’ivoire)

Kouadio Augustin Alla

doi:10.18535/ijsrm/v9i1.sh03

Abstract

Demographic pressure, the reduction of arable land and the instability of income generated by export crops have forced the people of Grand-Lahou to show more interest in fishing activities. Thus, the exploitation of water bodies is an important strategic and economic issue for the neighbouring populations. However, in recent years, this exploitation of aquatic resources has led to conflicts between operators. The aim of this article is to analyse the procedures for resolving these conflicts and to assess their effectiveness. The methodological approach has integrated field observations and analyses carried out on the basis of information collected through interviews with stakeholders. The results reveal various forms of conflict resolution with relative levels of effectiveness. This situation is a hindrance to the efficient use of Ivorian aquatic areas. It is therefore desirable for the State to play its role by proposing more effective ways of managing these conflicts. 

Highlights

In Côte d'Ivoire, the profound upheavals following the country's accession to independence, fuelled by galloping population growth, have led to the development of several sectors of activity
The lagoon of Grand-Lahou, which is the subject of this investigation, was traditionally exploited by the few indigenous populations, who practised subsistence fishing with rudimentary tools
The lagoon water intended for fishing is the object of covetousness of several users in Grand-Lahou

Summary

Introduction

In Côte d'Ivoire, the profound upheavals following the country's accession to independence, fuelled by galloping population growth, have led to the development of several sectors of activity. With the same contact person, we identified the problems linked to the management of these waters and sought to locate the areas of conflict by trying to understand the methods put in place to resolve them After this fisheries officer, a group of three other fishermen from the village of Braffedon provided information on the same concerns contained in our interview guide. This licence, the cost of which is fixed at 30,000 CFA francs for nonnationals and 15,000 CFA francs for nationals, gives those who wish to fish a right to access fishing areas Despite this provision made by the state, the lagoon and maritime fishing sector in the villages of Braffèdon, Lahou-Kpanda and Lahou-Plage does not escape the control of the local residents who exploit the waters according to a traditional code based on the customary and traditional laws of the indigenous populations. Photo 2: The ransacked fisherman's habitat, which was the source of the conflict

A drink

Conclusion