Abstract:
The conservation status of inland fishery resources is vulnerable worldwide, and this threatens the
livelihoods of fishing-dependent communities. This case study aimed to: (i) establish the use and perception
of fisheries and ecosystem services by locals, (ii) undertake a monetary valuation of the fisheries, (iii)
determine the potential threats to the fisheries, and (iv) examine the social drivers and barriers for citizen
science involvement. Lastly, (v) we evaluated how the above factors affected the conservation of fisheries at
Mushumbi Pools, Zimbabwe. A cross-sectional survey of 69 households was conducted. Results of the study
showed that locals utilised 17 fish species for social, economic, cultural and religious purposes. Locals attach
high intrinsic socio-economic value to the fisheries resources and wetland ecosystem services provided by
the Mushumbi Pools. Despite the sustained income from fisheries, the local market in Mushumbi Pools is
actually undervaluing fisheries resources, as the fish prices in the area are very low compared to standard
market prices countrywide. A larger proportion of the respondents (65%) cited poor land-tilling practices,
heavy application of agropesticides and use of unsustainable fish harvesting methods as the main threats
to fish diversity in Mushumbi Pools. Relaxed fishing concessions for women and children in specific fishing
zones were key drivers for community participation in fisheries conservation. However, strict enforcement
of fishing bans in breeding and nursery zones and restricted access to some parts of the Mushumbi Pools
were the main barriers for local involvement in the conservation of fisheries resources. Without the fishing
community’s participation there is no guaranteed sustainability of the fishery resources in the pools.
Legitimising community access, ensuring fair valuation and utility rights is a key driver for successful
management of inland fisheries resources in Sub-Saharan Africa
