Geomorphological features of the Manengouba Volcano (Cameroon Line): assets for potential geopark development

Abstract

Mount Manengouba is a volcanic complex, age between 1.5 and 0 Myr, situated in the Cameroon Line in Cameroon, approximately 120 km NE of Mount Cameroon. It comprises some important geomorphological features, of geoheritage significance, i.e., geomorphosites, namely, two nested sub-circular calderas, broken cones, crater lakes (Female Lake, Male Lake, and Beme Lake), domes and basins. The scientific values, aesthetic appeal, and the uniqueness of Mt Manengouba geomorphosites are suitable for geotourism. However, there are conflicting land-use values as its fertile soils favor farming in the downslope areas of the volcano, and the pyroclastic cones are quarried for pozzolana. While there are field excursions and research programs undertaken by Universities to educate the public about its geoheritage values, currently, tourism at Mt Manengouba is not well developed. It is proposed to promote better local environmental management of the area, improve roads to facilitate the accessibility to these geomorphosites, and produce interpretative panels, guide books and postcards to educate tourists on the geological setting and geoheritage values of the Mt Manengouba area.