ReCoMaP : Regional Programme for the Sustainable Management of the Coastal Zones of the Countries of the Indian Ocean

ReCoMaP - A different approach

The sectorial approach to development and land-use planning has traditionally led to a separation between planning and environmental management. In coastal areas, economic activities are strongly dependent on the availability and regeneration of natural resources. Furthermore, the success of any development initiative in these areas involves sustainable management that strikes a balance between economic development and resource protection. This requires:

 

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Improved knowledge and understanding of coastal systems and interactions between human activities and natural resources;

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Optimisation of the multiple uses of coastal resources, through integration of ecological and socio-economic information;

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Effective cooperation between all stakeholders, as well as good inter-disciplinary coordination and diversification of economic activities.

 

This is an integrated management approach which seeks to reconcile development activities with the maintenance of optimal ecological conditions, whilst involving all affected parties, directly or indirectly, in coastal resource management.

 

The Regional Dimension - A KEY concern for ReCoMaP

 

The need for integrated management of coastal and marine resources is a common concern for all the South West islands of the Indian Ocean and the coastal countries of East Africa.

 

The marine ecosystems of these countries share common characteristics. Their respective coastal environments are under similar human pressures and are experiencing the effects of similar natural phenomena in the region, such as the influence of marine currents at the south of the Equator and the impacts of monsoon winds or cyclones which particularly affect the island countries.

 

The South West Indian Ocean region has a very high biodiversity and supports a variety of habitats and a number of endemic marine species, some of which are of global ecological importance, such as the coelacanth. For this reason and for greater efficiency, the protection and management of coastal resources must be addressed at the regional level. Collaboration between institutions, information exchange and the sharing of experience and resource management tools through the Programme have enhanced regional cooperation and economic integration.