Preventing Conflicts Over Africa’s Ocean Resources

The increasing crowding of African ocean spaces due to the expansion of aquaculture, oil and gas exploration, and wind and wave energy is leading to rising conflicts over marine resources and locations. These disputes occur when the differing goals of two or more groups lead to clashes, often threatening the health of ocean ecosystems and the food security and livelihoods of coastal communities.

Environmental and social scientists distinguish between an ocean economy, which may prioritize only economic gain, and a blue economy. A blue economy is defined as using the oceans in ways that make economic sense, do not harm the environment, and are fair to people.

To better understand these dynamics, a team of researchers mapped conflicts over ocean resources across 34 African countries. This study utilized reports from journals, magazines, and newspapers published between 2008 and 2018, supplemented by surveys of experts in academia, civil society, and government.

The research indicates that the primary types of conflicts occurring across coastal regions involve disputed access to resources and areas, specifically fisheries and ports.

Regional Resource Disputes

In Ghana, there are persistent disputes regarding access to the sea between small-scale fishers and industrial fishers.

Similar tensions have emerged in South Africa’s Saldanha Bay Municipality on the west coast. As a hub for a port and a thriving fisheries sector, the area has seen conflicts arise over port development and aquaculture.

In the same region, regulations governing marine parks have created further tension by prioritizing the interests of tourists over those of small-scale fishers.

Legal Challenges and Environmental Impact

The impact of economic development on local livelihoods has reached the legal system. In 2022, the High Court of South Africa ruled that proposed seismic surveys for energy exploration along the West Coast were unlawful.

The court found that the planning process for these surveys failed to recognize or consult small-scale fishers. This lack of consultation occurred despite the immediate risks these surveys posed to other marine species and snoek, a fish consumed locally that provides income, nutrition, and food for fishing communities.

An affidavit submitted by Moenieba Isaacs, drawing on data from the project mapping African ocean conflicts, showed how regulatory changes and economic development affect the environment and the lives of small-scale fishers.

Strategies for Conflict Avoidance

Several African countries have integrated blue economy expansion into their regional or national development policies. The Africa Blue Economy Strategy outlines a vision for an inclusive and sustainable blue economy that significantly contributes to Africa’s transformation and growth.

Experts suggest that achieving this vision requires addressing the underlying issues that lead to disputes. The first necessary step is the documentation of where these conflicts are occurring, identifying the parties involved, and determining the specific nature of the disputes.