CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the Study

Globally, the livelihood of about 800 million people living in or near tropical forests and savannahs is directly affected by the wide range of products and services provided by the forest (Smith et al., 2017).  A large proportion of the population makes use of forests and the resources from them and these resources constitute vital components of local livelihoods, which probably prevent people from slipping into deeper poverty (Shacketon et al., 2007). Cameroon has some of the largest populations of Prunus Africana in the world. A local low volume trade in its bark for medicinal use exists. Its bark is also the raw material in health supplements and drugs used to treat prostate problems. It is one of the major income sources for forest-based communities around the MCNP (Bakingili,Boca,Mapanja,Bokwaongo etc) and enterprises.  The increasingly high demand has endangered the resource base and fears of unsustainable exploitation have led to international trade being restricted since 1995.

Prunus africana, commonly known as African cherry or pygeum, is a valuable tree species found in the Mount Cameroon region. It is a pan-african medicinal montane tree species distributed on the mountain regions of the South West, West and Northwest regions of Cameroon ranging from 700 m to 3000 m altitude (Ndam and Tonye, 2004). It has significant ecological and economic importance. The bark of Prunus africana is used for medicinal purposes, particularly in treating prostate-related conditions. This disorder is generally referred to as benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), which affects more than 50% of men over the age of 50 in Europe and North America (ICRAF, 2000). Prunus africana is produced in some 21 Sub-Saharan African countries but Cameroon is the biggest exporter of Prunus africana bark with annual average exports of 1500 tons of fresh bark during the 1980s and 2000 tons in the early 1990s (Cunningham et al, 2002). The average yield of bark per mature tree is about 95 kg with a wide variation from 32 kg/tree to 240 kg/tree (Tieguhong et al, 2005). Additionally, the timber from this tree is utilized in various industries. However, unsustainable management practices and overharvesting pose challenges to its long-term viability.

This research aims to explore the socio-economic impact of Prunus africana management, focusing on the Bakingili Community Forest. By understanding its value chain, we can develop sustainable strategies for its conservation and utilization.

1.2. Problem Statement

Despite the ecological and economic significance of Prunus africana, there is limited empirical data on its socio-economic impact in the Mount Cameroon region. The lack of comprehensive studies hinders effective management and sustainable utilization. Therefore, this research seeks to address this gap by investigating the socio-economic aspects related to Prunus africana.

1.3. Research Questions and Objectives

Research Questions

1. What is the volume of Prunus africana production in the Bakingili Community Forest?
2. What are the profit margins associated with Prunus africana products?
3. How does Prunus africana contribute to the livelihoods of the main stakeholders?
4. What are the key management challenges faced in the sustainable management of Prunus africana?

Research Objectives

1. To estimate the volume of Prunus africana Collected in the Bakingili Community Forest.
2. To evaluate the profit margins of the collectors of Prunus africana in Bakingili Community Forest.
3. To evaluate the economic contributions of Prunus africana to local livelihoods;
4. To identify and address management challenges.

1.4. Significance of the Study

This research holds several implications:

1. Conservation: Understanding the socio-economic impact of Prunus africana will inform conservation efforts and sustainable management practices.
2. Livelihoods: By assessing its contribution to livelihoods, we can promote community-based conservation and equitable benefits.
3. Policy: Findings will guide policy formulation and implementation related to Prunus africana management.

1.5. Materials and Methods

Data Collection:

– Field surveys in the Bakingili Community Forest.

– Interviews with stakeholders (local communities, traders, and forest managers).

– Document analysis (existing reports, policies, and literature).

Data Analysis:

– Descriptive statistics for volume estimation.

– Cost-benefit analysis for profit margins.

– Descriptive and inferential analysis for livelihood contributions.