Rural Youth Acting as Catalysts: Exploring the role of ecochamps in facilitating co-management processes in the Umzimvubu Water Catchment, in South Africa

Abstract

This research examines the role of rural youth in facilitating collaboration between local communities and stakeholders, leading to co-management processes in the Upper Umzimvubu Water Catchment (UWC) in South Africa. Specifically, it focuses on a group of young community members, known as ecochamps, who contribute to rural development and environmental conservation through their collaboration with stakeholders from the Umzimvubu Catchment Partnership (UCP). Positioned as intermediaries, the ecochamps act as catalysts for enhancing interactions between these two groups. The research employes a co-management framework to identify key areas where ecochamps play a critical role, while youth agency theory is applied to outline the youth participation in decision-making, leadership and environmental stewardship. The integration of these two frameworks provides a comprehensive lens to explore how ecochamps can facilitate joint decision-making, knowledge integration, and community empowerment. These three factors emphasize the importance of shared authority, responsibility, knowledge exchange, and community empowerment in natural resource management. Data for this research were collected over a five-month period in Matatiele, South Africa, through a mixed-method approach. The first phase involved household surveys, focus group discussions, and interviews with local stakeholders. The second phase comprised more in-depth insights gained through semi-structured interviews conducted via Microsoft Teams. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected, allowing for a robust analysis of the ecochamps' role in facilitating co-management. The findings reveal that ecochamps play a pivotal role in bridging communication gaps between traditional and scientific knowledge systems, empowering communities, and promoting localized sustainability practices. However, their influence on strategic decision-making within UCP meetings remains limited, as they are often perceived as consultative rather than integral participants in governance processes. Although they successfully integrate traditional practices, such as rotational grazing, into resource management, the broader application of their knowledge within formal UCP governance structures is inconsistent. In terms of community empowerment, ecochamps contribute significantly to building capacity and social cohesion, but their impact tends to focus on addressing practical challenges rather than influencing broader governance decisions within the UCP. The research concludes by highlighting the need for further investigation on youth agency in governance approaches, particularly in contexts where collaboration between stakeholders and local communities is essential for success in natural resource management.