Socio-economic and local governance aspects supporting payment for ecosystem services from contiguous sea grass - mangrove ecosystems in Kibele and Charawe villages, Zanzibar

Understanding socio-economic conditions and what constitutes good governance at local level is crucial for effective community based coastal resources management in the emerging conservation incentive strategies. This study analyzed socio-economic aspects and local governance aspects supporting payment for ecosystems services on seagrass and mangrove resources in Kibele and Charawe villages, Zanzibar. Participatory Rural Appraisal approaches and household questionnaire survey were used to gather primary data. Multiple regression and descriptive statistics were used to analyze quantitative data while content analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. Socio economic factors that showed significant influence (p<0.05) on mangrove exploitation were distance from the resource area and household income for Kibele, and income, gender and household size for Charawe. Factors that significantly influence (p<0.05) exploitation of seagrass resources in Kibele were age, distance from the resource area, income, gender and household size, and only type of occupation in Charawe. Local governance performance for fisheries (seagrass) management committees where rated satisfactory in both areas. Performance of mangrove management committees in Kibele and Charawe appeared satisfactory and unsatisfactory, respectively. Most respondents in all study areas agreed on inclusion of both mangroves and seagrass resources into voluntary carbon market scheme. To enhance sustainable conservation, this study recommends introduction of alternative livelihood activities and promote awareness programs on sector policies and laws, and on voluntary carbon market schemes to local communities for active participation in conserving resources and improving their livelihoods.