Masters Degrees (The Centre for Sustainability Transitions (CST))

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Browsing Masters Degrees (The Centre for Sustainability Transitions (CST)) by Author "Lee, Ha-Eun"

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    Exploring equity dynamics along the seaweed value chain in Zanzibar
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2023-03) Lee, Ha-Eun; Sitas, Nadia; Selomane, Odirilwe; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences. Centre for Sustainability Transition.
    ENGLISH SUMMARY: The Zanzibar archipelago is a small island state and the semi-autonomous region of Tanzania located in the Indian Ocean. Zanzibar has unique, rich, and valuable coastal ecosystems that provide diverse ecosystem services, which are critical for local livelihoods and well-being. Seaweed aquaculture is one of Zanzibar's major industries and the second-largest cash crop supporting the national economy and thousands of poor and rural coastal residents. Seaweed aquaculture has also attracted attention as a sustainable livelihood activity due to its low environmental impact and numerous socio-economic benefits, especially for women who often do not have the means to earn an income in the small-scale fishing community. However, seaweed farming may not be the silver bullet for empowering women due to mounting sustainability and equity issues related to current seaweed value chain practices. This research used a case study approach to analyse sustainability and equity issues within the seaweed value chain in Zanzibar using a social-ecological systems (SES) approach. This research also explored the multi-dimensional and interrelated relationship among ecosystem services, human well-being, and access mechanisms to understand opportunities for building social-ecological resilience. This research used a hybrid research methodology that included qualitative research methods (e.g., SES mapping, participant observation, and semi-structured interviews) and quantitative research methods (e.g., focus group surveys). Data were analysed using descriptive statistical analysis, value chain analysis, and thematic analysis. Several frameworks (e.g., Theory of human needs, intersectionality, and access mechanism) were also used to inform the data collection and analysis tools. The results of this study provide a more nuanced account that counters existing literature statements that seaweed farming has minor environmental impacts and provides socio-economic benefits through monetary value to women seaweed farmers as the main beneficiaries. Through SES mapping, two key trade-offs were identified: i) seagrass meadows serve as a good environment for seaweed farming but seaweed farming hinders seagrass meadow ecological health; and ii) seaweed farming provides socio-economic benefits to women but working conditions are dangerous for women’s health and safety. The relational value (i.e., relationship, respect, and participation) of seaweed farming was evaluated as more positive than the provisioning services (i.e., food, shelter, water, economic security). The distribution of monetary value was tilted towards the higher value chain activities that are male dominant, such as activities linked to export processes. Identity markers, such as geographic location, gender, age, and origin (place of birth), have a significant impact on different perceptions of the well-being contribution of seaweed farming. These identity markers also determine people's accessibility (i.e., to higher valued seaweed species, government supports, and employment), dependency on ecosystem services linked to seaweed farming, and vulnerability to environmental changes. Social norms and responsibilities, prejudices and perceptions, tradition and culture, education, institutions, and policy contexts played a significant role in shaping this identity-based accessibility, authority, and power dynamics over ecosystem services, further perpetuating social inequalities. These conclusions underscore the importance of more detailed qualitative research with disaggregated assessment tools, as well as mainstreaming equity considerations at all levels and sectors of governance to allow for an evaluation of multi-dimensional equity dynamics. Findings from this research could help to determine how and where to make interventions that are context-specific and address the needs of communities that rely on seaweed aquaculture from the bottom up.