Evaluating the effectiveness of co-management in Nui Chua National Park Marine Protected Area, Ninh Thuan province, Vietnam

Abstract

Although Nui Chua National Park MPA is considered as an effective MPA of Vietnam, especially in the involvement of community in management process, an overall assessment of biodiversity, socioeconomic and governance could help managers continue developing the advantages and overcome mistakes. By using relevant indicators, this study stated that abundance of species is somewhat increased, the conservation objective of Nui Chua MPA has been achieved. The livelihood of local communities slightly improved and the tourism provides some alternative livelihoods for households around the MPA. In addition, there is a small reduction in the dependence of fishermen on marine resources due to the rising profits of vessel affected by Nui Chua MPA. Community plays an important role in decision making, monitoring and enforcement in the MPA management. However, the law, policy and responsibilities of stakeholders have been not clear and little support for community’s activities. Those results explain for the necessary of the change and improvement of the management in Nui Chua MPA in future to be more successful.