The Co-governance of Fisheries in Post-conflict Sierra Leone: Is the Transition for Better or for Worse?

Abstract

In this contribution, we examine whether current governance mechanisms for sustaining the fisheries resources are better now than they were prior to the civil conflict of the 1990s in Sierra Leone, and if they are not, what policy instruments could contribute to improving governance. The establishment of co-managed systems during the post-conflict period as a conduit for introducing territorial user rights and marine protected areas constitutes an important step towards stewardship and stakeholder involvement in decision-making. However, the process has been criticized on the basis that it was rushed, thereby jeopardizing program implementation at the local level. Using the governability concept and fish chain as analytical tools, an assessment of the transition period from top down to co-management is undertaken to understand the overall quality of governance. There is evidence that the reforms are essential in promoting participatory governance and attaining multiple co-benefits in conservation and development. Yet, the institutional capacity at the local level is inadequate for effective compliance and monitoring. As a result, there is a need to strengthen the governing capacity and build linkages between fisheries and other economic planning activities where capacity is concentrated. Such efforts and transitional changes are relevant for achieving collective action especially in fragile states that are experiencing the increasing impacts of global environmental and economic changes.