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Western Africa

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                                                                       UNEP-WCMC

Further Resources

Participating States


The coastal waters within the convention area contain highly productive ecosystems that support rich fisheries. The coastal area also supports coastal tourism, industries and numerous busy ports. These ecosystems provide an important livelihood for many coastal communities.

The region, however, has seen serious conflicts resulting in immense human suffering and poverty. In the last three decades or so, the rapid development, improper use of resources and extensive pollution has impacted negatively on the coastal ecosystems.

Coastal erosion and floods are key problems, likely to be exacerbated by climate change. Destruction of critical habitats is wide spread in the convention area, and coastal communities are both the perpetrators and victims of this destruction.

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