A Guide to Participatory Fisheries Management in Malawi: Implementation Guidelines

Abstract

Participatory Fisheries Management (PFM) or fisheries co-management is a paradigm for sustainable management of fisheries resources which is aimed to empower fishing communities to take part in the management of their fisheries resources. It was introduced in Malawi to replace centralised fisheries management system that conferred decision-making to the Department of Fisheries (DOF). However, the arrangements have not been fully established due to failure to establish appropriate community property regimes where empowered communities and other stakeholders are responsible in the management of the fisheries resources, lack of operationalization of the six steps to attain PFM in fisheries and other natural resources, inadequate DOF resources to support PFM. The guide is therefore aimed at promoting active participation of stakeholders at all levels in fisheries governance. In addition, the guide seeks to define how, through the creation and development of Fisheries Association (FAs) at the ecosystem level, communities engaged in the fishing industry can be empowered to manage their water bodies and become more involved in co-partnerships with the government in formulating and implementing fisheries by-laws, and management plans. The guide is developed to elevate PFM from the earlier emphasis at the Beach/River Village Committee (BVC/RVC) level to a higher collective at the FA level and so that BVCs/RVCs become more functional structures at the grassroots level. It provides appropriate linkages to Local Fisheries Management Authorities (LFMAs) structures with other Local Government Authorities (LGAs) at a decentralised level so that they can devolve power and support their fisheries development activities. It is developed for policy makers, fisheries managers, trainers, and extension workers to better understand PFM as they implement fisheries resources management activities. It has applications that extend from the users, the BVCs/RVC to the FAs in an ecosystem approach.