Non-Timber Forest Products and Climate Change Adaptation / Forest Dependent Communities in Bamboko Forest Reserve, South West Region of Cameroon

Abstract

Background: Forests are tremendously endowed to combat climate change by protecting people and livelihoods, and creating a base for more sustainable economic and social development. But this natural mechanism is often hampered by anthropogenic activities. It is therefore imperative to take measures that are environmentally sustainable not only for mitigation but also for its adaptation. This study was carried out to assess the role of Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) was conducted among forest-dependent communities around the Bamkoko Forest Reserve in the South West Region of Cameroon as a strategy to cope with the impacts of climate change. Data were collected through household questionnaires, participatory rural appraisal techniques, transect walks, and direct field observations.Results: A total of 18 plant species were identified to be harvested by residents around Bamkoko Forest Reserve as Non-Timber Forest Products. The majority of the respondents (88%) perceived that there has been a change in climate patterns due to increased temperatures and unpredictable rainfalls. Eru was found to be the most affected livelihood activity (55%) by climate change around Bamboko Forest Reserve. Communities living around Bamboko Forest Reserve were found to use more than one strategy to cope with the adverse effects of climate change. Conclusions: The study concluded that non-timber forest products still play a safety net role to assist communities in an adverse situation such as crop failure under the current change in the climate. The need to emphasize sustainable harvesting, improve processing, and access to non-timber forest products markets is crucial.