Community Values and Sustainability of Beach Management Units: Does Project Committee Composition Matter?

Abstract

The sustainability of Beach Management Units (BMUs) in Homabay County, Kenya, is often challenged by a misalignment between community values and governance structures. This study investigates the moderating effect of project committee composition on the relationship between community values and BMU sustainability. Utilizing a mixed methods research design, the study sampled 647 respondents from a population of 7,151 individuals across 143 BMUs at active fishing sites. Respondents, including key informants and fishing participants from five sub-counties along Lake Victoria, were selected through stratified random, proportionate stratified, and purposive sampling techniques. Quantitative analysis revealed that community values (β = 0.847, p < 0.05) had a significant positive effect on BMU sustainability, while project committee composition moderated this relationship (β = 0.002, p < 0.05). The inclusion of project committees accounted for 75.7% of the variance in BMU sustainability, further supporting the critical role of governance structures. Qualitative findings highlighted that local ecological knowledge, such as understanding fish species behavior and seasonal shifts, is essential for sustainable fishing practices. The composition of BMU project committees particularly the inclusion of local fishermen, environmental advocates, and community elders contributed to more balanced decision-making, addressing both economic needs and ecological considerations. This study concludes that well-structured project committees aligned with community values act as a vital bridge between traditional knowledge and modern sustainability efforts. They ensure culturally sensitive and environmentally responsible decision-making, fostering long term BMU sustainability. The findings underscore the need for inclusive, culturally aligned governance structures in BMUs, with policymakers encouraged to integrate community values into beach management strategies.