Private AreaMatchmaking Tools
› (06-P-07) Project for support to sustainable management and biodiversity conservation of the Mangrove of Gagba channel in Benin
- Thematic Area: Sustainable use of Biodiversity
- Partner country: Benin
- Leading Agency: ECO-ECOLO
- Implementing Agencies: To be selected in the "Call for Proposals II Phase Pilot Projects"
- Beneficiaries: The beneficiaries of the project in Benin are the bordering communities of the Gbaga channel (men and women) in Benin, the local authorities and young people groups in ten villages. In Costa Rica, the beneficiaries of the project would be the communities of Tárcoles, as well as communities close to the managed ecosystems, specially women that collect molluscs, artisanal fisherpeople and other groups, such as young men and women, who are involved in eco-touristic activities.
› Problem Definition:
Mangrove ecosystems in tropical areas shelter a broad spectrum of biological diversity. The animal diversity comprises, among other things, species of birds, reptiles, fish, crustaceans and molluscs.
Moreover, the mangroves have other functions of stabilization of the litoral and prevention of coastal
erosion. The mangroves also provide human populations with many economical activities and goods: dwelling of the families, grounds for breeding and culture, firewood, fishing, hunting and ecotourism, among other things. They provide also medicinal substances and offer habitats and natural seedbeds to many important watery species. Therefore, they play an important role as places of interest for conservation and productivity.
As developing, tropical countries, both Benin and Costa Rica share many similarities in ecosystems and resources. The situation of coastal and lowland wetlands is very critical in the two countries, due to a series of factors. In Benin, the principal threats relate to the loss of the productivity of the lake, the destruction of the habitats of aviary and wild fauna, the capture of the birds for illicit sale, impunity, non–respect or knowledge of the laws and texts and non- respect of the traditional practices of nature conservation. In Costa Rica, the main threats to these wet ecosystems are the lack of land use policies, uncontrolled touristic development, pollution and overexploitation of resources.
› Project Description:
Within the framework of this project two major results are awaited.
1) The biological resources of Gbaga channel and in Tárcoles, Central Pacific of Costa Rica re-known and endowed with a restoration and preservation plan.
2) The basis of the rational exploitation of the Gbaga channel and Tárcoles mangroves and lagoons based on an integral and gender equitable approach.
› Overall Objective:
To contribute to the sustainable management and the conservation of biological resources of mangrove and lagoon ecosystems through the participation of local communities and the reduction of poverty.
› Implementing Strategy:
- Exchange of experience and export of our two cultures in the fields of arts, tourism and agricultural
knowledge, weaving, irrigation method, method of treatment and purification of drinking water.
- Exchanges in the field on sensitization of the population about the management of public goods
and the level of men and women conscience placed in the front of the public for the management of
those resources.
- Trade in terms of awareness on the management of public affairs and the degree of awareness of men
and women placed in front of public view for the management of affairs.
- The Costa Ricans and Benineses experiences in decentralization.
