Coupling GIS with Local Knowledge for Integrated Coastal Zone Management

Nnabugwu O. Uluocha,

Department of Geography, University of Lagos (NG)

Characteristically, a typical coastal zone is a complex and fragile ecological system. The physical, social, cultural, economic, historical, aesthetic and recreational dimensions of coastal zones make it quite imperative that such zones should be managed in an integrated manner. However, effective and efficient coastal management cannot be attained without the availability and use of relevant, up-to-date, comprehensive, accurate and easily accessible geospatial information.
The role of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in coastal zone management (CZM) has been widely recognised and canvassed. On the other hand, the potential role of local (traditional or indigenous) knowledge in CZM has not been significantly identified and highlighted.
Moreover, the possibility, importance and efficacy of interfacing GIS and indigenous knowledge as a tool for CZM ha ve \ not been emphasized.
This paper, therefore, calls attention to the relatively hidden importance of indigenous knowledge in the sustainable and integrated management of coastal resources. The paper strongly advocates the integration and use of GIS and local knowledge (LK) as a viable, strategic and potent measure for sustainable coastal management. The paper also presents and discusses a model and work plan for collecting traditional knowledge and interfacing it with GIS for enhanced CZM. The possible areas of application as well as potential benefits of marrying GIS with indigenous knowledge for coastal management are equally highlighted.