Assessing the Cayar MPA's Effectiveness: Stakeholder Perceptions, Bioecological Trends and Socioeconomic Impacts

ABSTRACT Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are central to global biodiversity strategies, including Senegal's 30×30 commitment. The Cayar MPA, designated as IUCN Category VI and established over two decades ago, was intended to conserve biodiversity while supporting sustainable small‐scale fisheries. However, its partial protection status, lack of enforced no‐take zones, and weak ecological connectivity pose challenges to achieving these goals. This study assessed the long‐term effectiveness of the Cayar MPA using a mixed‐methods approach that combined analysis of official fisheries catch data (2007–2016) with field surveys of 400 artisanal fishers and in‐depth interviews with 35 stakeholders. The findings revealed limited ecological and socioeconomic outcomes. Fish catches declined by 36.5%, accompanied by the disappearance of several commercial species. Despite existing regulations, destructive fishing practices persisted, and 68% of surveyed fishers reported no improvement in income. Moreover, 85.5% of respondents reported increased conflicts over fishing grounds, mainly between artisanal fishers and industrial processors. Many community members perceived the MPA as a constraint rather than a benefit. Three governance failures explained these outcomes: weak enforcement of regulations, insufficient action against illegal fishing, and limited community participation in decision‐making processes. Consequently, the Cayar MPA has fallen short of its conservation and socioeconomic objectives. To enable MPAs in developing countries to balance biodiversity conservation and livelihoods, reforms are needed. These include greater integration of local communities in co‐management, stronger alignment between fisheries and conservation policies, and the promotion of alternative livelihood programs. Without such changes, MPAs risk exacerbating socioeconomic tensions while failing to achieve ecological recovery.