Self-Governance of Common-Pool Resources Under Rapid Urbanisation: The Case of Lake Hawassa, Ethiopia

Abstract

Contemporary common-pool resource (CPR) theories recommend self-governance as an effective management approach. This article investigates the implications of rapid urbanisation on CPR self-governance, using Lake Hawassa in Ethiopia as a case study. Drawing on semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and field observations, the study finds that the characteristics of the lake's uses and users have changed over time, primarily as a result of urbanisation. The rural–urban transition has displaced primary users with deep knowledge of the lake system. The study identifies new uses – water extraction for greenery and construction and waste discharge – and new users – micro and small enterprises (MSEs) and recreational. Reconciling these new users with primary users is a key governance challenge. The study contributes to a broader understanding of urbanisation's influence on CPR management and underscores the need to adapt CPR self-governance to growing user diversity and urban complexity.