Migration and Dynamics of Land Occupation around the Manigri-Beterou Axis in the Communes of Bassila and Tchaourou in Benin

Abstract

The scale of migratory movements in recent years around protected areas is exerting unprecedented pressure on natural resources. Therefore, this study analyzes the evolution of the North-West sector of the Wari-Maro classified forest in relation to the massive influx of rural migrants. The methodological approach used includes documentary research, socio-economic surveys, processing of planimetric and socio-economic data for the sector from 2005 to 2020, analysis and interpretation of the results following a cartographic approach. The exploration of rural migrations and their involvement in the dynamics of land use were carried out along the two axes Oubérou-Wari-Maro-Kikélé and Wari-Maro-Manigri bordering the FCWM. Given the natural potential that abounds in the sector, it is one of the most coveted landscapes by 72% of rural migrants, mainly made up of Yom and Lokpa socio-cultural groups. Agriculture, pastoralism and forestry are the main rural activities. The diachronic analysis of the occupation using satellite imagery (2005-2020) reveals a reduction in natural areas in favor of an increase in agricultural and inhabited areas. It is therefore urgent to encourage natural resource conservation methods in the northwestern periphery of the Wari-Maro Classified Forest.