The road towards effective governance and management of marine protected areas in South Africa: evolving policies, paradigms and processes

Abstract

The efficacy of marine protected areas (MPAs) depends on their governance and management. We review their
history in South Africa and recognise four periods. Period 1 (1964–1994) provided initial protection but was
based on exclusionary, preservationist policies, was ad hoc in the absence of a national plan, and neglected
social considerations. Period 2 (1994–2010) began introducing people-oriented policies, focused on ecosystems
rather than species, and was strengthened by the formation of a national coordinating body. Period 3 (2010–2019)
heralded improvements in design, ecosystem representation and stakeholder engagement, yet fractured
governance hindered coordination and management. Period 4 (Since 2019) added challenges in managing new
offshore MPAs. Progress in achieving effective MPA governance and management was assessed over these
periods for 17 components of governance and management, representing key issues for which changes could
be identified throughout. Fifteen components indicated overall improvements—most notably legislation and
policies, MPA establishment, planning and design, and staff training and skills—whereas progress for most of the
other components was weaker. Zero net gains were recorded for enforcement and compliance, and for the staff
complement. Our recommendations flow principally from components assessed as faring poorly. We conclude
with eight critical needs: (1) specify detailed objectives for every MPA; (2) fast-track management plans for new
MPAs; (3) improve law enforcement and compliance; (4) enhance participation of adjacent communities and other
stakeholders; (5) address MPA-related social impacts and injustices, and improve benefit sharing; (6) ensure
financial sustainability; (7) strengthen evaluations of management effectiveness; and (8) improve cooperation
between government authorities responsible for MPAs and fisheries.