Exploring Local Community Knowledge to Conserve the Endangered Microberlinia bisulcata A.Chev in Ebo Forest, Cameroon
Mandah Cicelia Takor *
Institute of Agricultural Research for Development (IRAD). P.O. Box 2123 Yaoundé, Cameroon and Department of Plant Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Cameroon.
Onana Jean Michel
Department of Plant Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Cameroon.
Biye Elvire Hortense
Department of Plant Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Cameroon.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aims: This study assessed local ecological knowledge, perceptions, utilisation, and attitudes towards the conservation of the endangered tree species Microberlinia bisulcata A. Chev. (Zingana) in Ebo Forest, Cameroon, with the aim of identifying opportunities for strengthening community-based conservation.
Study Design: A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was used.
Place of Study: The study was conducted in four communities surrounding Ebo Forest, the natural habitat of the species, namely Nyamtan, Ndogbanguengue, Ndog Banan, and Ndog Ndak, in the Littoral Region of Cameroon.
Methodology: Data were collected through interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire administered to 135 respondents selected from the four communities. The questionnaire collected information on respondents’ socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of Microberlinia bisulcata A. Chev. (Zingana), local uses, perceived importance, exploitation practices, threats to the species, and attitudes towards its conservation. Responses were summarised using descriptive statistics and compared among respondent groups where appropriate.
Results: The results showed that local communities possessed substantial knowledge of Microberlinia bisulcata A. Chev. (Zingana) (73%). Timber was identified as the principal use of the species (52.6%), reflecting its high economic value and the strong dependence of local livelihoods on forest resources. However, illegal logging was perceived as the greatest threat to the survival of the species (51.9%). Most respondents expressed positive attitudes towards the conservation of Zingana (84.4%) and supported integrated conservation measures. Age and occupation were the major socio-economic factors influencing forest conservation attitudes and resource-use patterns. Nevertheless, awareness of the ecological consequences of illegal logging remained relatively low among a considerable proportion of respondents (20%).
Conclusion: Local community knowledge represents an important resource for the conservation of Microberlinia bisulcata A. Chev. (Zingana). Integrating local knowledge and community participation into conservation programmes, together with environmental education, sustainable resource-use practices, and alternative livelihood opportunities, could contribute to reducing anthropogenic pressure on the species and improving its long-term conservation in Ebo Forest.
Keywords: Microberlinia bisulcata, local ecological knowledge, Community-based conservation, Ebo Forest, illegal logging, forest resource use, conservation attitudes, natural regeneration, sustainable forest management