Marine Spatial Planning in the Benguela Current Large Marine Ecosystem

Area of Science:

• Marine Spatial Planning (MSP)
• Ocean Governance
• Ecosystem-based Management

Background:

• The Benguela Current Large Marine Ecosystem (BCLME) faces increasing user conflicts due to rising demands.
• Angola, Namibia, and South Africa are implementing Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) within the BCLME.
• This initiative marks a pioneering effort in Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) within developing economies and the African continent.

Purpose of the Study:

• To trace the origins and rationale behind the development of MSP in the BCLME region.
• To review the current status of Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) processes at both regional and national levels.
• To analyze and compare regional and national MSP approaches, governance, opportunities, and challenges.

Main Methods:

• Historical tracing of MSP origins and development drivers.
• Review of existing regional and national Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) processes.
• Comparative analysis of MSP approaches, governance, and challenges across Angola, Namibia, and South Africa.

Main Results:

• Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) is driven by interests in developing the blue/ocean economy and implementing the ecosystem approach.
• Similar MSP strategies and regional cooperation facilitated by the Benguela Current Convention (BCC) are evident.
• Despite financial and data limitations, MSP processes have enabled the creation of initial marine spatial plans and knowledge exchange.

Conclusions:

• Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) adoption in the BCLME supports sustainable development and ocean governance.
• Regional collaboration through the Benguela Current Convention (BCC) enhances cross-border coherence in MSP.
• Ongoing challenges in finance and data require continued attention to fully realize the benefits of MSP in the region.