The W Transboundary Park: A Model of Subregional Integration in Africa

This study examines the management and promotion strategies of the W Transboundary Park in West Africa, with a focus on their role in fostering subregional integration. It aims to assess how environmental conservation efforts contribute to sustainable development and territorial cohesion in the regi...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: Sodansou, Houndégnon, Foronda Robles, Concepción
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Estado:Versión publicada
Fecha de publicación:2025
País:España
Institución:Universidad de Sevilla (US)
Repositorio:idUS. Depósito de Investigación de la Universidad de Sevilla
OAI Identifier:oai:dnet:idus________::a92a9509709acccba7c715e3c8de30d8
Acceso en línea:https://hdl.handle.net/11441/184317
https://doi.org/10.46222/ajhtl.19770720.664
Access Level:acceso abierto
Palabra clave:W Transboundary Park
subregional integration
ecotourism
transboundary cooperation
sustainable development
Descripción
Sumario:This study examines the management and promotion strategies of the W Transboundary Park in West Africa, with a focus on their role in fostering subregional integration. It aims to assess how environmental conservation efforts contribute to sustainable development and territorial cohesion in the region. A qualitative research approach was employed, combining field observations, semi-structured interviews, and analysis of official documents and meeting minutes involving both public and private stakeholders. Findings reveal that the W Park is effectively managed through a tripartite governance framework involving Benin, Burkina Faso, and Niger, which facilitates continuous dialogue, shared decision-making, and cross-border cooperation. The strategies implemented have positively impacted both biodiversity conservation and local socio-economic development, particularly through ecotourism and community engagement. These results underscore the importance of integrated and participatory management in promoting regional stability and cohesion. The study’s primary contribution lies in demonstrating how transboundary natural resource management can serve as a practical tool for regional integration and sustainable development, providing a model that is replicable in other transboundary conservation areas across Africa and beyond.