River Culture and learning with and from fishing communities

WEBINAR SESSION 6 – December 15, 2023

River Culture and learning with and from fishing communities

Concluding the Moving Rivers Webinar Series on a high note, the recent session brought together diverse voices to discuss critical aspects of river ecosystem dynamics and the challenges faced by fishing communities. On December 15, 2023, Professor Dr. Karl Matthias Wantzen delivered an insightful presentation, seamlessly integrating elements of ecology, conservation, and water-related issues in alignment with the series’ objective of fostering inter(trans)disciplinary discussions. Ph.D. researcher Lupele Chisala’s presentation on the River Commons project delved into the complexities of fishery practices on the Namibian and Zambian sides of the Kwando River.

Professor Wantzen’s presentation commenced with a compelling analogy, drawing parallels between musical variations and hydrological fluctuations in the Paraguay River. He eloquently described the rhythm of floodplains and its broader impact on habitat dynamics, erosion, deposition, and resource availability. Furthermore, Wantzen explored the concept of rivers as biocultural conveyor belts, facilitating the migration of ideas and genes. The presentation highlighted cultural connectivity between humans and rivers, with diverse examples from different cultures worldwide. It addressed the challenges traditional practices face, including conflicts with conservation efforts and the erosion of cultural traits due to Western consumeristic lifestyles. A specific concern raised during the presentation was the potential threats of the Hidrovia project (to make the Paraguay River more navigable) for the Pantanal wetlands. Wantzen expressed apprehension about the resultant reduction of floodplain areas and the disruption of flood rhythms, underscoring potential consequences for biocultural diversities. Despite these challenges, the presentation proposed cultural connectivity as a potential solution for effective nature management. Wantzen cited examples of community-based conservation initiatives and top-down approaches that coordinate water-related activities, aligning with the series’ goal of promoting dialogue between researchers and various stakeholders.

Following Professor Dr. Karl Matthias Wantzen’s presentation, the Moving Rivers Webinar Series continued with Lupele’s presentation on the Namibian and Zambian sides of the Kwando River. The presentation began with a geographical context of the Kwando River, emphasizing its flow through the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area, spanning five Southern African countries. Lupele focused her research on the Zambian and Namibian sides, addressing challenges like the lack of harmonized policy, transboundary coordination, and unsustainable fishing practices. On the Namibian side, historical factors, including colonization, displacement, and the establishment of National Parks, influenced fishery practices. Lupele highlighted challenges related to illegal fishing and the positive step of establishing fish reserves in collaboration with local communities. Moving to the Zambian side, Lupele shed light on the complexities arising from the river’s location and historical demarcations. The presentation emphasized the low education levels among fishermen, the presence of Fisheries extension officers, and challenges in fishery co-management. A significant aspect of Lupele’s presentation was the innovative use of a gallery walk to engage with fishing communities. This method involved displaying information on fishing methods, fish species, and historical accounts on the walls, fostering genuine interactions. The gallery walk revealed local knowledge, cultural practices, and the intergenerational transfer of information. Lupele discussed issues such as prohibited fishing gear, education, and the need for effective fishery co-management. The gallery walk not only provided valuable insights but also facilitated dialogue between fishermen and the District Fisheries Office, addressing issues like the lack of communication and understanding. Lupele emphasized that historical accounts shape fishery practices, and the gallery walk approach, despite being time-consuming, created a space for contestation and dialogue among different stakeholders. She highlighted the interdependence of practices within fishery activities and the influence of non-human elements like wildlife on fishing practices.

Finally, the Q&A session delved into crucial aspects of river management, emphasizing the need for inclusive multi-stakeholder engagement and the integration of grassroots knowledge. The discussion also touched on gender dynamics and the challenges of bridging the gap between top-down policies and local expertise.

Speakers: