Abstract

Environmental services may be guided in the process of urbanization through the actions of local stakeholders. In the evolving cultures of Africa, there are contrasts driven by past colonisation and recent democratization. Stakeholders’ attitudes towards the environment are molded by the problem of pollution in the port city studied, and the industries’ positive effects on the local economy. Environmental activists see a need to maintain ecological integrity through spatial integration. Some recommendations to optimize development and reduce conflict are provided.

Key words: African development, environmental conflicts, port city, pollution, beach use, environmental lobby.