<p>With the increasing food insecurity and shortage in animal protein provision, affordable and healthy sources of seafood, such as mangrove oysters, have emerged as promising alternatives. However, increasing anthropogenic pressures compromise the sustainability of oyster sector in many developing coastal states. This study investigated the local importance and trends of mangrove oyster collection in Togo, West-Africa, using a socio-cultural valuation approach. The study employed qualitative-oriented methods such as informal conversation, focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, and participant observations, to understand the patterns of use and the dynamics in oyster exploitation in Togo. Results indicated that most people expressed a frequent consumption preference for mangrove oyster (95%), while a minority consume it rarely (5%). Participants in the study identified three main periods (past, present, and future) marked by varying patterns of harvesting and utilization of mangrove oysters. Unlike in the preceding years when all harvested oysters were processed for human consumption, a larger part of the resources collected (over 70%) are now reduced to poultry feed for animal consumption, predominantly due to phosphate-based pollution occurring in the area, which deteriorates the quality of the resource. This study serves as a preliminary appraisal for more quantitative research initiatives, and policy actions to rescue the oyster sector for the sustainability of mangrove resources, and the improvement of local people livelihoods and wellbeing in Togo and in West-Africa at large.</p>