Evaluating community perceptions on floodplain wetland utilisation and sustainability: a case study in the uMsunduzi river basin.

Abstract

Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems globally, offering essential ecological and socio-economic benefits that sustain rural livelihoods, particularly in developing countries. Yet, these ecosystems face severe degradation driven by agricultural expansion, urbanisation, pollution, and weak institutional governance. Given these challenges, it is crucial to understand how communities interact and perceive wetland sustainability to address unsustainable practices. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate community perceptions and utilisation practices influencing the sustainability of floodplain wetlands in developing regions, with a specific focus on the uMsunduzi River Basin in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. To achieve this objective, two specific objectives were drawn: (1) to systematically review existing literature on community perceptions and sustainable management of wetlands in developing regions, and (2) to assess local community perceptions on the utilisation patterns and challenges associated with wetland sustainability in the uMsunduzi floodplain. A total of 59 studies were retrieved from Scopus, Web of Science, and Springer. These were systematically reviewed following the PRISMA guidelines, and the findings showed that while communities in literature recognise the ecological and economic importance of wetlands, pressure from agriculture, urban development, and limited policy awareness undermines conservation efforts. These challenges in literature were reinforced by low awareness, historical grievances, and competing economic interests, which contributed to negative community attitudes or perceptions. In addressing the second objective, a mixed-method approach, combining questionnaires (n = 60), key informants’ interviews, and field observation was employed.