ANALYSE DES PERCEPTIONS LOCALES DES SERVICES ECOSYSTEMIQUES FOURNIS PAR LE SYSTEME OASIEN DU MANGA (SUD-EST NIGERIEN)

Abstract

The oasis system of the Manga constitutes a unique ecosystem with dune facies which are linked and surround the depressions in the form of shallows and oasis basins. These valleys, which are threatened by silting, support the economic activities of the inhabitants and offer numerous ecosystem services. The aim of this study is to analyse local perceptions of ecosystem services in the Manga in order to establish sustainable strategies for the perpetuation of ecosystem services. Data were collected through village assembly surveys and individual interviews with a sample of 194 farmers. The results show that farmers perceive 18 ecosystem services in the four categories defined by the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment. The category of provisioning services is the most diverse with 10/18 of the services mentioned. The perception of ecosystem services varies little across the study areas and gender has a significant influence on perceptions. Communities are aware of the threats to exploited ecosystems and are willing to preserve ecosystems through local strategies to sustain the services they derive. Community involvement in implementing these sustainability strategies is influenced by gender and income level of the farmers. The implementation of simple strategies within the reach of farmers should allow for sustainable use of ecosystems and provision of services for the well-being of communities.