CHAPTER ONE

GENERAL INTRODUCTION

1:1 Background to the Study.

Renewables natural resources are that resources that can be replenished naturally over time. These include resources such as forest, Water, soils, and wildlife which can be generated through natural processes if managed sustainably unlike non Renewables resources such as fossil fuels and minerals, Renewables resources can be continuously without depletion when managed properly Tyler and Scott Spoolman (2015).   Renewable natural resources management is critical for sustainable development, particularly as global populations grow and demand for resources increases. This field encompasses the management of resources that can be replenished naturally, such as forests, water, soil, and biodiversity Tyler and Scott Spoolman (2015).

 In North America, renewable resource management focuses heavily on sustainable forestry, water conservation, and wildlife management. The U.S. and Canada have implemented policies aimed at balancing economic growth with environmental protection. Challenges include climate change, habitat loss, and the impacts of industrial activities. The statistics in 2021 shows that renewable resources was about 20% of the total energy consumed in the united states of America, mostly in solar  U.S energy information (2022)

Asia faces unique challenges due to its vast population and rapid industrialization. Countries like China and India are working towards sustainable practices in agriculture and fisheries. However, overexploitation of resources, pollution, and deforestation remain significant challenges. The integration of traditional ecological knowledge with modern practices is becoming increasingly important. It’s the largest that contribute about 45% of the total global renewable energy capacity. International renewable energy agency (2023).

Sub-Saharan African is richly blessed with renewable natural   resources such as forest, water, wildlife and however these renewable natural resource face problems from the overexploitation, degradation and also climate change. Forest 22% of sub Saharan’s African land area, 743millionhectares of forest cover (FAO, 2020) food and agricultural organization deforestation rate3.4%perannum (FAO, 2020). Water 9%of the global fresh water resources, 47%of population lack access to safe water (WHO 2020). Wildlife 25%of global wildlife population in 1970-2016, 30%decline in wildlife population.rangekands40%of sub-Saharan African’s land area (FAO, 2019) and 20% of land degraded.

Cameroon, located in Central Africa, is endowed with rich natural resources, including diverse forests, fertile soils, and abundant water bo. The high rates of deforestation driven by agricultural expansion, logging, and infrastructure development pose significant threats to biodiversity and ecosystem health (FAO, 2020). Additionally, issues such as land tenure insecurity and weak enforcement of environmental regulations hinder effective resource management (Njeuma et al., 2021).

Santa Subdivision in the North West Region of Cameroon provides a unique opportunity to study renewable natural resources management. This area is characterized by diverse ecosystems that support local communities’ livelihoods through agriculture and forestry. However, it also faces significant challenges including deforestation, water scarcity, and soil degradation. Recent studies have highlighted the importance of community engagement in resource management to effectively address these challenges (Ngwa et al., 2022). Understanding local perspectives on resource use and conservation practices is essential for developing sustainable management strategies that align with the needs and realities of Santa’s communities.

The lack of a cohesive regulatory framework and insufficient community engagement in decision-making processes hinder collaborative efforts to address these issues. Identifying and understanding these challenges is crucial for developing targeted strategies that can mitigate their impacts

1.2 statement of the problem

The management of renewable natural resources is a pressing concern for communities globally, and Santa is not an exception. They are endowed with a variety of renewable resources, including forests, water bodies, agricultural lands, and fisheries. These resources are vital for sustaining local livelihoods, supporting economic activities, and maintaining ecological balance. However, the current state of resource management in Santa reveals significant gaps that threaten the sustainability of these resources.

Despite the abundance of renewable natural resources in Santa, it appears several challenges impede effective management. Seemingly, overexploitation is a significant concern, as local communities often rely heavily on these resources for their daily needs, leading to depletion and degradation.

It appears that the consequences of ineffective renewable natural resource management in Santa are far-reaching and multifaceted. Seemingly, environmental degradation resulting from unsustainable practices can lead to loss of biodiversity, soil erosion, and diminished water quality, which ultimately affect food security and public health. Equally it also appears that, communities may face declining incomes as resource availability decreases, leading to increased poverty and social instability. Furthermore, the erosion of cultural practices tied to natural resources can diminish community identity and cohesion

Seemingly, addressing the challenges and seizing the opportunities related to renewable natural resource management in Santa is essential for ensuring sustainable development. This study seeks to illuminate the complexities surrounding natural resource management while providing insights into potential solutions that can benefit both the environment and local communities.

1.3 Research questions

1.3.1 The main research question

How is renewable natural resource exploited in Santa sub Division?

1.3.2. Specific Research question.

1 What are the renewable natural resources in Santa sub Division?

2 What are the challenges of renewable natural resource management in Santa sub Division?

3 What are the measures to mitigate and improve renewable natural resources management in Santa sub Division?

1.4 Objectives

1.4.1 Main

Examine the contribution of renewable natural resource management in Santa sub Division

1.4.2 Specific objectives

 Identify types of renewable natural resource in Santa sub Division.

Analyze challenges of renewable natural resource management in Santa sub Division.

Sort out mitigation measures   to improve renewable natural resource management in Santa sub Division