Stakeholder Power and Influence Analysis: Mangrove Restoration Case Study
In the mangrove restoration project, local government agencies hold the most formal influence due to regulatory power and funding access. However, local communities ultimately benefit the most, as the project directly protects their homes, livelihoods, and food security.
Government Agencies: High influence; provide permits, funding, and policy support. Benefit from achieved climate targets and reduced disaster risk.
Local Communities: Moderate influence (through collective action); provide labour, local knowledge, and long-term stewardship. Benefit from enhanced protection and sustainable resources.
NGOs/Researchers: Moderate-high influence; provide technical expertise, training, and bridge communities with funders. Benefit from successful implementation and data.
Private Sector (e.g., fishing/tourism): Low-moderate influence; depend on healthy ecosystems. Benefit from sustained economic activities.
Power imbalances exist: community voices can be overshadowed by top-down planning. Success requires ensuring their input shapes project design, not just implementation. I determined influence by assessing control over resources, decision-making authority, and dependency on project outcomes.