The first step in the Systems Approach Framework (SAF) is the Issue identification (1). It initiates the SAF process to achieve ICZM. It is about scoping the project, outlining the critical preliminary actions and setting the scene for undertaking community participation.

The Issue is usually a problem or a conflict that needs to be resolved. A solution needs to be found and implemented. However, if the system is not viewed as a whole, the decision may only have addressed the needs of one sector. Before you know it, a new conflict arises with new actors. The problem becomes a never-ending story, where the managers use resources defending unsustainable decisions and potentially non-compliant citizens oppose, resist or challenge the decision and its implementation. With the SAF, decision making becomes a collaborative process.

At the end of the Issue identification step you will have decided whether or not to initiate a SAF cycle and you have formed a core SAF team with the necessary expertise to conduct the work and have engaged the stakeholders that will be involved in the SAF application.

It should be kept in mind that the SAF application can be terminated during this step if the Issue is too simple or too complex to be applied with the available resources.

Open the handbook (1) and click on each of the actions