HMC took the technical lead in assessing Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) in Africa, aiming to understand its role as a tool for the conservation of aquatic biodiversity and ecosystems.
The study, conducted as part of the "Conserving Aquatic Biodiversity in African Blue Economy" project for AU-IBAR and funded by SIDA, delved into the status of MSP in West, Central, and Northern African nations. It identified gaps, challenges, and best practices, providing expert recommendations for advancing MSP in Africa.
In a rapidly evolving world where the delicate balance of aquatic biodiversity and ecosystems is increasingly threatened, strategic planning becomes paramount. HMC took on a pivotal role in addressing this challenge through its involvement in the “Conserving Aquatic Biodiversity in African Blue Economy” project for the African Union-InterAfrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR), funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA).
At the heart of this project was the Assessment of Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) in Africa. HMC, with its rich expertise in marine and environmental consulting, was tasked with providing the technical leadership needed to understand the significance of MSP as a management tool for the conservation of aquatic biodiversity and ecosystems across the African continent.
The study’s scope extended to West, Central, and Northern African countries, where the status of MSP was meticulously reviewed. This comprehensive assessment encompassed the roles played by MSP in safeguarding Africa’s aquatic biodiversity.
The findings of this endeavour went beyond mere evaluation. They shed light on the intricacies and nuances of MSP implementation, identifying gaps and challenges, while also highlighting best practices. The result was a roadmap towards more effective MSP implementation in Africa, backed by expert recommendations that underscored seven key areas for improvement.
In the end, this project not only deepened our understanding of MSP’s role but also fortified our commitment to preserving aquatic biodiversity in Africa. It’s a testament to HMC’s dedication to sustainable environmental practices and its mission to bridge the gap between research and action. As we move forward, these insights will continue to guide our efforts in nurturing and conserving the invaluable aquatic ecosystems that sustain life and livelihoods across the continent.
View the policy note that was compiled as a result of this project here.
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