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

Abstract

Background: This study to assess the role of Non-timber forest products was conducted to forest dependent communities around Bamkoko Forest Reserve in the South West Region of Cameroon as a strategy to cope with the impacts of climate change. Methods: Data were collected through household questionnaires, participatory rural appraisal techniques, transect walk and direct field observations. Results: A total of 16 plants species were identified to be harvested by residents around Bamkoko Forest Reserve as None Timber Forest Products. The majority of the respondents (88%) perceived that there has been a change in the 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. Conclusion: The study concluded that NTFPs still play a safety net role to assist communities in adverse situation such as crop failure under the current change in climate. The need to emphasis sustainable harvesting, improve processing and access to NTFPs markets is crucial.