In this book the authors argue for a paradigm shift in the way African wetlands are considered, arguing for an approach which is more people focused. The authors stress the need for Integrated Water Resource Management and landscape approaches. Drawing on nine empirical case studies, this book highlights the different ways in which sustainable use of wetlands has been sought, each case focusing on specific issues about wetlands, agriculture and livelihoods.

1. People-centred Wetland Management 2. The Value of Wetlands for Livelihood Support in Tanzania and Zambia 3. Catchments and Wetlands: a Functional Landscape Approach to Sustainable Use of Seasonal Wetlands in Central Malawi 4. Local Institutions, Social Capital and Sustainable Wetland Management: Experiences from Western Ethiopia 5. The Emergence of a Systemic View for the Sustainable Governance and Use of Wetlands in Complex and Transforming Environments: Experiences from Craigieburn, South Africa 6. Assessing the Ecological Sustainability of Wetland Cultivation: Experiences from Zambia and Malawi 7. Sustainable Management of Wetlands for Livelihoods: Uganda's Experiences and Lessons 8. Managing a Ramsar Site to Support Agriculture and Fisheries: Lake Chilwa, Malawi 9. Agriculture, Livelihoods and Fadama Restoration in Northern Nigeria 10. Wetlands and Rice Development in West Africa 11. Conclusions: Transforming Wetland Livelihoods