Exploring Co-management : A Minor Field Study on Lake Victoria Beach Management Unit in Ggaba, Kampala, Uganda

Abstract: To manage common resources such as water bodies, forests and the air is complex since several stakeholders are involved and affected by the use of the resource. One way to manage common resources is through co-management. Co-management is a decentralized method that empowers the local level and enables collaboration between the government and the local community. Co-management within fishing communities can be realized through so called Beach Management Units (BMUs). Around Lake Victoria, there are 1087 BMUs. One of these BMUs is located in Ggaba, Kampala, Uganda and the purpose of this study is to highlight benefits and shortcomings connected to co-management within fisheries. The study aims to explore if and how sustainability aspects are tackled through the co-management of fisheries. The data was collected using qualitative semi-structured interviews where six BMU members contributed with their experiences. In addition, data was collected from a qualitative content analysis on two BMU guideline documents, representing the central level. The results showed that the Ggaba BMU provides a platform for creating control through collaboration. The local levels’ perception on co-management within fisheries seems to correspond with the central level’s aim of the management. Another indication is that the BMU has brought upon positive effects on economic, social and ecological aspects on the society of Ggaba. However, corruption and illegal fishing are two identified barriers which seems to limit the function of the Ggaba BMU and the level of co-management.