Analysing Informal Governance Arrangements in Small-Scale Fisheries: A Case Study of Norton, Zimbabwe
Many small-scale fisheries (SSF) studies have recognised the importance of this sector. However, in Zimbabwe, limited recognition or policy provisions cater to the SSF. This study used an Interactive Governance Approach to analyse the governance of the Norton SSF and their lived experiences. A total...
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| Main Authors: | , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Utrecht University Library Open Access Journals (Publishing Services)
2025-01-01
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| Series: | International Journal of the Commons |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://account.thecommonsjournal.org/index.php/up-j-ijc/article/view/1401 |
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| Summary: | Many small-scale fisheries (SSF) studies have recognised the importance of this sector. However, in Zimbabwe, limited recognition or policy provisions cater to the SSF. This study used an Interactive Governance Approach to analyse the governance of the Norton SSF and their lived experiences. A total of 113 respondents were sampled using purposive and snowball sampling techniques. Data were collected through interviews, focus-group discussions and informal conversations. Secondary sources of data, such as government policy documents were also used. Data were recorded, transcribed, and thematically analysed. The results show that SSF in Zimbabwe is instituted through an overlapping hierarchical, centralised system. This formal centralised system is poorly regulated, and challenges exist when implementing management strategies. As a result, the weak hierarchical arrangements coupled with the economic challenges have led to the emergence of informal fishing, which is dominant and visible in Norton SSF and contributes to local fishing livelihoods. This study calls for participatory and co-management arrangements that could strengthen this sector and formulate policies to guide the SSF sector in Zimbabwe. This study contributes to the emerging literature on SSF governance in Zimbabwe. |
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| ISSN: | 1875-0281 |