Sustainable management of mangroves in the Grand-Lahou lagoon complex (Côte d'Ivoire) in a context of anthropic pressures

Abstract

In Côte d'Ivoire, mangroves are reduced to a very small area along the coast and threatened by exponential anthropic activities on the coastal fringe. This study took place in Grand-Lahou, Nzida, Braffedon, Ebonou, Adiadon and Groguida localities. The objective was to contribute to a sustainable management of mangroves in these areas. To do this, managers groups and people living along the mangroves were interviewed using a semi-structured survey method in order to know the anthropic pressures and to map the areas suitable for restoration. Mangrove uses were listed, citation frequencies and use values were calculated, and mapping treatments were performed. The results reveal that the search for Rhizophora racemosa wood and fishing remain the most important activities in the mangroves. Correlatively to these pressures, fishermen mentioned a decrease in fishing products. To rehabilitate the mangrove ecosystem and then restore the fishery stock, sites have been identified for reforestation and mangrove reinforcement operations. These are sites near Braffédon and Ahonzon tislands; between Cap Lahou and Noumouzou village; in Lègrèko and Groguida villages. This study will provide a solid data base for the sustainable preservation of mangrove ecosystems.