Impacts of Co-Management of Forest Resourcesin the Kounabembe Cultural Universe, East Cameroon Region

Abstract

Objective: This article aims to examine the impact of changes linked to the co- management of forest resources on the way of life of the Kounabembe in the East Region, Cameroon. Method: In addition to the literature review, standard development anthropology techniques were used to collect data in the field from co-management actors, community members, and co-management beneficiaries. Following this qualitative research, the data was transcribed, then processed and interpreted on the basis of content analysis. The dynamic theory of anthropology was used to interpret the data. Results: The co-management of forest resources has generated perceptible changes in the Kounabembe cultural universe. The way of life of the populations has improved relatively. However, due to the implementation of numerous micro-projects, it is also deplored that these changes are not in line with the cultural representations of the Kounabembe. Conclusion: The interest in co-management of forest resources to contribute effectively to local development among the Kounabembe is obvious. However, its contribution to development and poverty reduction in relation to the changes in this cultural universe remains insufficient because of its sometimes non-consensual nature and the search for personal profit by certain actors.