Power relations in Sub-Saharan African small scale fisheries and conservation: A multi-dimensional review

The complexity of power dynamics in marine conservation and fisheries management within Sub-Saharan Africa remains under-studied, despite its critical importance for sustainable resource governance. This review investigates the multifaceted nature of power by applying the Power Cube framework and the four dimensions of power, focusing on their implications for governance and resource management. The analysis reveals that centralized decision-making, traditional authority, neoliberal policies, and external actors significantly shape power relations, often marginalizing local communities and small-scale fishers. The review further explores how these dynamics contribute to sustainability challenges while highlighting the importance of addressing structural inequalities to promote equitable governance. By examining case studies and existing literature, this paper underscores the need for inclusive approaches that empower marginalized stakeholders and foster collaborative governance. The findings suggest that recognizing and addressing power asymmetries is crucial for achieving sustainable and just outcomes in marine conservation and fisheries management. Ultimately, this review contributes to a deeper understanding of power relations in natural resource governance and offers practical insights for enhancing policy frameworks in Sub-Saharan Africa.