Exploring The Role of Participatory Development Communication in Enhancing Community Support for the Proposed Marine Protected Area at Greater Cape Three Points, Ghana

Abstract

This study examines the role of participatory development communication in strengthening community support for the proposed Marine Protected Area (MPA) at Greater Cape Three Points in Ghana’s Western Region. The study aimed to assess how participatory communication influences community awareness, trust, perceived legitimacy, and overall support for the proposed MPA. Using a convergent parallel mixed methods approach, the study combined survey data with interviews and focus group discussions to capture both breadth and depth of community perspectives. Data were gathered from about 150 community members in selected coastal communities, alongside qualitative inputs from fishers, women fish processors, youth, elders, and institutional stakeholders. Findings show that general awareness of the proposed MPA is relatively high, but levels of understanding vary widely across communities. Radio broadcasts, community meetings, NGO outreach, and traditional leaders were the main information sources; however, inconsistent follow-up communication limited deeper understanding of the MPA’s objectives and implications. Participation in sensitization activities was moderate, indicating that awareness alone does not guarantee meaningful engagement. Results further demonstrate that participatory communication strongly shapes trust in decision-making processes. Quantitative analysis indicates that meeting participation, communication frequency, transparency, and inclusion of community views positively influence trust. Nevertheless, qualitative findings reveal concerns about limited influence in decision-making and perceptions of tokenistic consultation. Participatory communication was also found to significantly predict perceived legitimacy, with active involvement, regular updates, and transparent processes enhancing acceptance of the proposed MPA. Trust and perceived legitimacy emerged as the strongest drivers of community support, alongside awareness and effective communication channels. While communities recognized potential long-term ecological and livelihood benefits, concerns about fishing restrictions and income loss persisted. The study concludes that sustained, inclusive, and culturally appropriate participatory communication is essential for building trust, legitimacy, and durable community support for marine conservation initiatives at Greater Cape Three Points.