Community perspectives and policy effectiveness: a study on floodplain wetland management and its socio-economic implications in the Msunduzi River Basin

Abstract Despite the crucial role of floodplain wetlands in sustainable development, existing research reveals a significant gap in community awareness and engagement with relevant policies. This study seeks to elucidate the community’s understanding of wetland management policies and their perceived effectiveness in shaping agricultural practices and socio-economic development. Employing a mixed-methods approach, data were collected through structured surveys with residents of the floodplain and interviews with key stakeholders. The key findings reveal a marked deficiency in community awareness regarding existing floodplain wetland management regulations, accompanied by widespread scepticism about their effectiveness. This lack of awareness is further exacerbated by perceptions of ineffective community participation in policy decision-making, highlighting a substantial disconnect between the intentions of these policies and the lived experiences of local residents. These insights suggest that, without meaningful engagement and transparent dissemination of information, the potential for effective floodplain management remains severely compromised, thereby jeopardising both environmental sustainability and socio-economic development within the region. The results underscore the urgent need for improved communication strategies and inclusive engagement processes to empower local communities in floodplain management. By addressing these identified gaps, policymakers can foster enhanced community participation, increase the efficacy of environmental regulations, and ultimately support sustainable socio-economic development. This study contributes to the broader discourse on urban governance and environmental management in the Global South, advocating for a paradigm shift towards participatory approaches in policy formulation and implementation.