Community participation in the management of conservation areas
a case study of Maputo National Park
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47236/2594-7036.2026.v10.2241Keywords:
Community participation, Participatory governance, Co-management, Biodiversity conservation, Maputo National ParkAbstract
Community participation constitutes one of the pillars of the sustainable governance of conservation areas by promoting the involvement of local communities in biodiversity conservation and the sustainable use of natural resources. In this context, the present study aimed to analyse community participation in the management of Maputo National Park, using the Gueveza community as a case study. A qualitative approach was adopted, with the case study serving as the methodological strategy. Data collection comprised bibliographic and documentary research, direct observation, and semi-structured interviews conducted with the administrator of Maputo National Park and 29 residents of the Gueveza community, selected through non-probability purposive and convenience sampling. The data were analysed using content analysis and information triangulation. The results show that community participation takes place through Community Management Committees, community consultations, and benefit-sharing mechanisms; however, it remains constrained by the limited influence of communities in decision-making processes, human–wildlife conflicts, insufficient capacity building of local actors, and limited transparency in benefit management. It is concluded that strengthening community participation mechanisms is essential to promote more inclusive governance, reconciling biodiversity conservation with the sustainable development of local communities.Downloads
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