Uncovering the role of fisheries management in reducing malnutrition in sub-Saharan Africa

There is growing global support to conserve 30% of the planet by 2030, suggesting conservation efforts, in all their forms, are likely to expand. It is widely recognised that area-based management tools (ABMTs) can be ecologically effective yet, their socioeconomic outcomes vary depending on the social and governance context. Specifically, the relationships between managed areas such as ABMTs and human nutrition remain unclear. Using spatial ecological, socioeconomic, human nutrition information from the past 20 years, and a Before-After Control-Intervention design on human communities located far versus near managed areas, we examined if and how area-based fisheries management can help alleviate malnutrition in coastal sub-Saharan Africa. We found that proximity to well managed areas was associated with increased fish consumption and improved nutrition outcomes. Specifically, better nutrition outcomes were observed among households engaged in fishing activities. Our study also revealed that other factors such as the proximity to markets and the sources of livelihoods can influence nutrition outcomes. It also showed that it can take time for fisheries management to lead to positive nutrition outcomes. Finally, our findings highlight the importance of considering local ecological and socio-economic conditions to ensure small-scale fisheries continue to improve the livelihoods and well-being of local communities.