Highlands Of Cameroon Research Articles

Prevalence of bovine fasciolosis and direct financial losses in cattle slaughtered in Bamenda and Bafoussam abattoirs, Western Highlands, Cameroon.

Bovine fascioliasis is a parasitic disease that affects cattle. It leads to direct and indirect great economic loss due to animal mortalities, growth retardation and expenditure on anthelmintics, reduction livestock productivity and essentially condemnation of infected liver by inspection service. The study was carried out to determine the seasonal prevalence and estimated financial losses of fascioliasis in cattle in the Western Highlands of Cameroon. A total of 2167 cattle were selected. Later, the cattle, have being the carcasses, were dissected, and the livers were dissected and carefully examined for adult liver flukes. Faeces were collected immediately after the cattle were killed and examined using the formol-ether concentration technique. Condemned livers were weighted to estimate the financial losses using the average price of a kilogram of liver. A total 428 of cattle were found with infected livers or egg in the faeces giving a total prevalence of 19.75%. Among the infected carcass, 18.64% had both the Fasciola eggs in the faeces and flukes in the liver while 1.10% had only flukes in the liver. Results revealed that prevalence of Fasciola spp. was significantly higher during the rainy season (23.48%) than 16% in the dry season (p=0.00). A significantly (p=0.000) higher prevalence was also observed in females (33.9%) than in males (13.1%). Age range showed significant (p=0.000) influence with the animals of 8-10 years old recorded the highest prevalence of 39.3%. Furthermore, 433.1kg of liver was condemned giving a direct financial loss of 1221,550 FCFA (2049.64 USD) and an annual financial loss due to liver condemnation estimated to 1814,775 (3045.01 USD). Findings of this study indicated that bovine fascioliasis is prevalent in cattle in the Western Highlands of Cameroon, and it leads to an important financial loss particularly in the rainy season.

Evaluation of the productivity of maize (ATP) under different sowing dates in the western highlands of Cameroon

This study aims to assess the effects of three sowing dates on the growth and yield of maize. The trial was conducted at the Teaching and Research Farm of the University of Dschang in Bansoa (Penka-Michel) over two growth cycles: 2020 and 2021. The experiment was arranged in a randomized complete block design. Treatments, replicated three times, included a control (T) and three levels of fertilizer input: mineral fertilizer (E), organic fertilizer (F), and organo-mineral fertilizer (EF). The maize variety used was the Acid Tolerable Population (ATP). Sowing occurred sequentially on March 30, April 10, and April 20. Daily rainfall data were collected using a graduated cylinder rain gauge. Observations focused on growth and yield parameters at different sowing dates. The results obtained indicate that maize responded significantly to different sowing dates (p < 0.05). Fertilizer application also positively influenced growth compared to the control. The tallest plants were observed in the F treatment sown during the first date (300 cm). Similarly, the collar diameter followed the same trend, with the F treatment measuring 3.43 cm compared to 2.14 cm for the control, indicating significant differences. Yield results showed the first sowing date > second date > third date. The highest yield was achieved with the EF treatment during the first period (6985 kg/ha), compared to the control during the third period (2009 kg/ha). Within each period, the yield results followed the order: EF > E > F > T. Organic fertilizers alone also produced favorable results compared to the control. Given the current climatic conditions and the results obtained, maize sowing conducted in the first sowing period (March 30) with organo-mineral fertilizer would likely result in optimal grain yield.

A new cloud forest tree Lychnodiscus bali (Sapindaceae), Critically Endangered from the Bali-Ngemba Forest Reserve, NW Region, Cameroon

SummaryWe describe and illustrate Lychnodiscus bali Cheek (Sapindaceae), a new species to science, from the Bali Ngemba Forest Reserve of NW Region Cameroon, the last major remnant of cloud forest in the Bamenda Highlands of Cameroon, recently evidenced as a Tropical Important Plant Area (TIPA or IPA). Confined on current evidence to upper submontane forest, the new species is threatened by expanding habitat clearance for farms and is assessed as Critically Endangered. A small tree, attaining 3 – 4 m height, it is the first new species to be added to this Guineo-Congolian tree genus in 50 years, the third recorded from Cameroon and takes the number of species in the genus to eight. It has the highest known altitudinal range (1700 – 1950 m alt.) of any species of the genus. We discuss its discovery in the context of other recently discovered and highly threatened or even extinct plant species in the Cameroon Highlands, and the importance of their conservation. The new species was previously identified as Lychnodiscus grandifolius Radlk., but differs in the shorter length of the distal leaflets (12 – 18 cm vs 22 – 39 cm long); in the abaxial leaf surface lacking glands (vs glands flat and conspicuous); in being sparsely hairy all over (vs glabrous except the main veins) and in its larger flowers, 8 – 11 mm long at anthesis (vs 5 – 7 mm long). We present an identification key of the species of Lychnodiscus and discuss their classification in the context of recent molecular phylogenetic and phylogenomic studies. The authors contend that Lychnodiscus Radlk., previously placed in Cupanieae by Radlkofer, should now be placed in the reconstituted Nephelieae in the revised 2021 intrafamilial classification of Buerki et al., probably close to the genera Aporrhiza Radlk. and Laccodiscus Radlk. However, until the genus is included in molecular studies this cannot be confirmed and a sister relationship remains speculative.

Egg characteristics, hatch rate and early growth performance of keets post-hatch in guinea fowl (&lt;i&gt;Numida meleagris&lt;/i&gt; ) in the Western Highlands of Cameroon

Egg characteristics, hatch rate and early growth performance of keets post-hatch in guinea fowl (&lt;i&gt;Numida meleagris&lt;/i&gt; ) in the Western Highlands of Cameroon

Rainfall reliability and maize production in the Bamenda Highlands of Cameroon

The long-term average rainfall for a given period (month, season or year) scarcely indicates reliability because rainfall in low latitudes varies significantly from one year to the other. The less variable rainfall is, the more reliable it is, as the index of variability measures the likelihood of repetition in the mean amount of rainfall. This study bridges some gaps in related studies in the Bamenda Highlands, such as a study assessing climate change impacts on food security, where the Rainfall Anomaly Index was used and another study on the impact of rainfall on maize production using the Standardized Precipitation Index. The objectives of this study are to assess rainfall reliability and establish the impact of rainfall reliability on maize production. Rainfall data were collected from 15 stations, while maize output was collected for four localities. Results revealed that rainfall is still reliable for 13 stations, with a coefficient of variations of 9.62 to 18.54 %, while Ndop and Ndawara recorded unreliable rainfall of 23.14 % and 30.97 % respectively. Rainfall reliability was complemented by the Standardized Precipitation Index, which showed that only 53.45 % of rainfall episodes were normal to sustain maize production, while 46.55 % were events of rainfall deficits. Maize production has been decreasing in Ndu, Oku and Nkum while increasing in Ndop. These findings reflect the realities of other tropical mountainous regions in the world. Faced with future climatic uncertainties, farmers should embrace agroecological practices, climate-smart agriculture, conservation agriculture, Nature-based Solutions, Ecosystem-based Adaptation and diversification of production systems and livelihood sources to ensure food security.

Institutional Change and Compliance in Forest Landscape Restoration Governance: Insights from the Western Highlands of Cameroon

ABSTRACT The debate regarding whether, in sub-Saharan Africa, exogenous 1 and endogenous institutions 2 have witnessed significant changes to facilitate contemporary Forest Landscape Restoration (FLR) processes remains inconclusive. Additionally, there is insufficient knowledge of their compliance levels. To address these lacunae, we used content analysis of policy documents, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and expert interviews to examine the evolution of FLR-linked exogenous and endogenous institutions and their compliance levels in rural Cameroon. Using thematic and content analyses hinged on a hybrid endogenous-cum-exogenous institutional analytical lens; we conclude that in Cameroon’s FLR context, exogenous institutions have transitioned from focusing solely on forest plantation establishment to encompass natural/artificial regeneration and agroforestry. More recent approaches have incorporated FLR financing mechanisms, capacity building, collaboration, and research. However, the significant exogenous institutional transformation does not necessarily imply higher compliance. Future studies should unravel actors’ interests and power dynamics that potentially shape compliance with institutions in FLR.

Remote sensing, allometry, and carbon stocks of Phyllostachys aurea in the Western Highlands of Cameroon

The fight against climate change is one of the major concerns of the international community and has led to a search to identify cost-effective ways to manage ecosystems in a way that removes atmospheric carbon-dioxide while providing essential societal benefits. As bamboo ecosystems in Cameroon are poorly known, this study sought to evaluate the distribution of bamboo, develop allometric equations for it and estimate carbon stocks associated with bamboo in the Western Highlands of Cameroon. Landsat 8 OLI imagery was used to increase data on the distribution and carbon stocks of Phyllostachys aurea Carrière ex Rivière & C. Rivière in the study area. P. aurea is reportedly the most exploited species for ecological, socioeconomic and cultural activities in the region, posing a challenge for the sustainability of the species. Twelve circular plots were established in P. aurea stands in the Western Highlands. Five per cent of the bamboo stems were harvested. Every stem was sorted into leaves, branches, and culms. These were weighed, and sub-samples taken to the laboratory. Sub-samples were oven-dried for biomass estimation. Regression analysis was used to develop the allometric equations. The best equation was used to estimate the carbon stocks. The Western Highlands region of Cameroon is estimated to have 241,296 ha of bamboos. The dominant bamboo species identified in the study area include Oldeania alpina (K.Schum.) Stapleton (syn. Yushania alpina K.Schum.), Bambusa vulgaris Schrad. ex J.C.Wendl. and P. aurea. Focusing on P. aurea the best fit equation with a bias of − 6.98%, Adj.R² = 0.711, AIC = 17 and RSE = 0.262, was selected. The mean density of P. aurea was 38,017 ± 4510 culms.ha−1. The mean culm aboveground biomass was 3.15 ± 0.94 kg. The AGB of P. aurea was estimated at 119.05 ± 3.63 t.ha−1, mean AGC was 55.95 ± 5.81 t C.ha−1 and mean aboveground carbon dioxide equivalence (AGCO2eq) was 205.35 ± 58.01.22 t CO2.ha−1. P. aurea constitutes a significant carbon sink in the Western Highlands of Cameroon. Policymakers and development planners should therefore recommend this species for carbon markets, international initiatives such as AFR100, and the Nationally Determined Contribution addressing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 13 (SDG13) to combat climate change.

Evaluation of Soil Temperature, Water Productivity and Agronomic Performance of Potato (Solanum Tuberosum L.)-Legume Intercropping System in the Western Highlands of Cameroon

Intercropping is a farming practice involving two or more crop species, growing simultaneously in the same area and which could efficiently utilize natural resources. A two-year study was conducted during 2021 and 2022 in the western highlands of Cameroon to examine the impacts of potato-legume intercropped on soil water content (SWC), productivity and soil temperature(ST) in order to identify cropping systems (CS) that controls ST and water productivity (WP). A randomised complete block design with seven treatments: sole potato crop (T1), Mucuna (T2), lima bean (T3), cowpea (T4) and intercropping systems of Mucuna+potato (T5), lima bean+potato (T6) and cowpea+potato (T7) was used. CS has a significant effect (P&lt;0.05) on ST with the lowest ST being obtained in T5 (19.50°C), T7 (19.66°C) and T6 (19.68°C) against 20.20°C in T1. SWC varied with CS (P&lt;0.05) with T1 having the lowest SWC of 40% versus T5 (47.90%), T6 (44.42%) and T7 (42.76%). Water use increased significantly (P&lt;0.05) with T1 (783.34mm) and decreased from T7 (783.32mm) to T5 (783.30mm). As for WP, T1 (2.96g.mm-1) recorded the lowest value and T5 (4.04g.mm-1) the highest. T5 had the highest tuber yield (29.60t.ha-1) and T1 the lowest (23.21t.ha-1). Legume grain yield and biomass were highest in T5 (2.10t.ha-1 and 6.78t.ha-1 respectively) compared to others intercropping systems. The intercropping systems obtained an overall LER and WER greater than 1 with the highest in T6 (6.20 and 2.63). Intercropping potato with Mucuna or lima bean reduces soil temperature while improving soil water productivity that enhances potato production.

Estimating the vulnerability of groundwater resources to diffuse pollution in highlands areas: review of the literature and critical analysis (highlands of Cameroon)

Abstract Groundwater is a major resource for drinking water, especially in developing countries, where it is less expensive to treat than surface water. Today, the resource is highly susceptible to pollution, particularly as a result of human activity. This review was based on a literature review and critical analysis of models for estimating the groundwater vulnerability. The results show that the deepest porous aquifers are the least susceptible to pollution, whereas those in karstic and fissured environments are susceptible, whatever their depth. Pollution usually arises from human activity. Critical analysis of the literature shows that existing methods are developed in specific environmental contexts. Given the variability of factors in space and time, these methods do not take the intrinsic realities of all natural settings into account adequately and are not perfectly applicable in all environments. This highlights the need to develop appropriate models for each environment, such as that of the highlands in countries such as Cameroon.

Eichhornia crassipes Efficacy in Secondary Wastewater Treatment in the Western Highlands of Cameroon

Wastewater treatment using lagoons technology is recognised to have potential to protect the environment and preserve water resources. The implementation requires mastery of ecological conditions of operation and management of the plants used. We aimed to contribute to the implementation of macrophyte-based lagoons for wastewater treatment in the Western Highlands of Cameroon. We used two sets of four lagoons in series; one was vegetated with E. crassipes, while the other served as the control. Each set constituted an anaerobic, two facultative, and maturation lagoons. Each lagoon system was supplied with primary-treated domestic wastewater from the wastewater treatment plant of the University of Dschang, Cameroon, at a hydraulic loading rate of 1.13 m3/day. Monthly wastewater samples were collected from the inflow and outflow of each lagoon for physicochemical and bacteriological analyses, and plant growth was assessed biweekly for six months spanning the dry and rainy seasons. Macrophyte lagoons showed positive plant growth during both seasons. The highest plant height (10.67 and 25.21 cm), longer roots (11.3 and 37.41 cm), and the highest number of new buds (14 and 20 buds) were obtained during the dry and rainy seasons, respectively. Plants were significantly ( P &lt; 0.0001) taller in facultative lagoons in the rainy season than in the dry season. Vegetated lagoons significantly ( P &lt; 0.05) contributed to reducing TSS (−08.36% and 82.25%), true color (44.46% and 82.31%), orthophosphates (63.1% and 86.59%), and BOD5 (−56.79% and 56.06%) during the dry and rainy seasons, respectively. 100% elimination of fecal streptococci (FS) and 74.89% and 43.80% of fecal coliforms (FC) were observed in the dry and rainy seasons, respectively. Significant ( P = 0.0019) FS elimination was more in the dry season than in the rainy season. However, the average residual content of FC (190,000 UFC/100 ml) was still higher than WHO limits (≤1000 UFC/100 ml) for nonrestrictive reuse in agriculture. E. crassipes can be efficiently used in lagoon systems for domestic wastewater treatment in the Western Highlands of Cameroon.

Propagation, development phases and domestication of &lt;i&gt;Cyperus&lt;/i&gt; &lt;i&gt;rotundus&lt;/i&gt; L. in the Western Highlands of Cameroon

Cyperus rotundus Linn. is a potentially valuable aromatic plant given its ability to synthesise essential oil and the variety of traditional uses associated with it. The valorisation of this plant would imply the exploitation of a significant quantity of its biomass, which cannot be obtained from the wild. The aim of this study was to determine the best methods for regeneration and the development phases of C. rotundus, in order to ensure the continuous availability of its biomass. The mode of natural regeneration and the state of domestication of C. rotundus by local populations were investigated through surveys of traditional healers and herbalists. In addition, ex situ regeneration trials were carried out using vegetative propagation from bulbs and seed germination. The vegetative propagation was assessed by estimating the lag time and percentage regeneration of the bulbs, while the seed germination percentage was evaluated. The development phases of the plant were identified following the BBCH (Biologische Bundesanstalt Bundessortenamt and CHemische Industrie) scale. The yield was calculated from the underground biomass of the bulbs produced at the end of the plant life cycle. The results showed that C. rotundus regenerates naturally from bulbs and rarely from seeds. In the Western Highlands of Cameroon, traditional practitioners and herbalists have begun domesticating C. rotundus on a small scale. Propagation attempts from seed were unsuccessful in the present study. However, from bulbs, a lag time of 10 days was observed and a regeneration percentage of 88% obtained after 47 days. Five phases of development were identified including emergence (0), bolting (1), flowering (2), maturation (3) and senescence (4). The production of bulbs, which are organs containing the essential oils, was observed from the bolting phase. The biomasses of about 383, 493 and 520 kg/ha were obtained during phase 1, 2 and 3 respectively. The best propagation method and the development phases of Cyperus rotundus investigated in this work could contribute to an advance in the domestication process in order to ensure its availability and sustainability.

Effects of combined mineral and sewage sludge fertilization on soil properties and growth of two &lt;i&gt;Zea&lt;/i&gt; &lt;i&gt;mays&lt;/i&gt; (L.) varieties in Western Highlands of Cameroon

This study aimed at evaluating the effects of combined application of dewatered sewage sludge (SS) and mineral fertilizer on the chemical properties of the soil and growth of &lt;i&gt;Zea&lt;/i&gt; &lt;i&gt;mays&lt;/i&gt;. Six treatments: T0, negative control; T1, positive control of 120 kg N/ha; T2, 2 t/ha sewage sludge (SS) + 60 kgN/ha; T3, 4 t/ha SS + 60 kgN/ha; T4, 8t / ha SS+ 60 kgN/ha and T5, 8 t/ha SS were applied in completely randomized block experimental design. The following parameters: height of plants, diameter of stem, number of healthy leaves, leaves area index, root and shoot biomasses were measured on plants at 30, 44 and 58 days after sowing. For the soil parameters, electrical conductivity (EC), redox and hydrogen potentials were measured at the same frequency. The results showed that the height, the stem diameter, the number of leaves, the leaves area index and the biomass of Zea mays increased in response to soil supplementation with sewage sludge combined with mineral fertilizers. The treatment that best stimulated the growth of maize was T4 (8t/ha SS+ 60 kgN/ha). The soil chemical properties were modified by sewage sludge application. In general, pH and conductivity decrease with sludge application, while, redox potential increased. This shows that combined sewage sludge to NPK (20 10 10) leads to changes in chemical parameters of the soil and thus, influencing the nutrients uptake by plants to improve their growth.

Assessing Floristic Diversity and Ecological Characteristics of Mount Mbapit Savannah, Western Highlands of Cameroon

Assessing Floristic Diversity and Ecological Characteristics of Mount Mbapit Savannah, Western Highlands of Cameroon

Pesticide Usage in Pest Management by Vegetable Producers in the Foumbot Production Basin of the Western Highlands (Cameroon)

Purpose: Cameroon is the food basket of the Central African Region in terms of food production and a significant proportion of her population depends on the production of fruits and vegetables for livelihood. The Western Highlands of Cameroon is known for its high agricultural output, especially in the domain of market gardening. The Foumbot Production Basin in the Western Highlands of Cameroon is noted for its high agricultural output, especially in the domain of market gardening. Produce originating from this area is consumed throughout the nation, especially in the Southern Regions of Cameroon and also exported to neighbouring countries like Gabon, Equatorial Guinea and Central African Republic. This study therefore sought to find out how pesticides are being employed in the production of these crops (mostly fruits and leafy vegetables, of short growing cycles) in the Foumbot Production Basin of the Western Highlands of Cameroon. &#x0D; Methodology: A survey was conducted in which a well-developed questionnaire containing both closed multiple-choice and open-ended questions, was established to collect important information related to the topic from the market gardeners in the Foumbot Production Basin. A total of 100 market gardeners were interviewed. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The data allowed us to assess the pesticide use practices of tomato growers by having a clear idea on demographic social characteristics (sex, level of education, age, and marital status), agronomic practices (cropping season and cropping system), application of pesticides (types of pesticides used, source of information’s relating to the use of pesticides, the moment of application, reaction following the ineffectiveness of the product, respect pre-harvest intervals, knowledge of the presence of residues in the fruits, health effects, wearing of PPE and disposal of empty packaging). &#x0D; Findings: It was observed that a majority of the gardeners were males with mostly secondary education. Many of the gardeners did not disposed their empty pesticide containers properly while a majority did not use personal protective equipment during application. Up to 93% of producers do not respect or ignore the pre-harvest interval. Harvest was determined by the availability of buyers of the crop, irrespective of the last time it was sprayed. This is attributed to the complete absence of extension services and training. &#x0D; Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: This information can be used to develop a training programme on pest management especially on pesticide use in the Foumbot Production Basin.

Problems and Prospects of Learners with Visual Impairment in Biology Inclusive Classrooms of the Western Highlands of Cameroon

Purpose: This research work seeks to explore Problems and Prospects of Learners with Visual Impairment in Biology Inclusive Classrooms in some Subdivisions of the Western Highlands of Cameroon. Specifically, this study seeks to: Investigates if collaborative practices exist in a Biology inclusive classroom, examines if a tripartite relationship exist between the Biology teacher, LVI, and transcriber in a Biology inclusive classroom, examines constraints that restrict proficiency of LVI in a Biology inclusive classroom, and evaluates the prospects that LVI have in a Biology inclusive classroom.&#x0D; Methodology: Relevant theories and appropriate empirical reviews utilised guided and instructed the process adopted for the conduct of the research. Primary source of data was collected using questionnaires, observation and unstructured interview on four public and private secondary schools in Bafut, Bamenda, and Dschang subdivisions through the simple convenient and purposive sampling techniques, with sample size of 21 LVI, 20 Biology teachers and 9 transcribers. Data collected was subjected to descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS version 20 for a one sample T- test.&#x0D; Findings: Findings revealed that, collaborative practices and tripartite relationship do not exist in Biology inclusive classrooms. On the other hand, findings also revealed that, constraints that restrict proficiency amongst others are: assessment\attitude problems, technology availability /affordability but, LVI still have prospects in an inclusive Biology classroom.&#x0D; Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: Based on the findings, it is recommended amongst others that, a tripartite relationship be built between the teacher, the learner with visual impairment and the transcriber in a Biology inclusive classroom.

Factors affecting lactation performances of Jersey-White Fulani and Holstein-Gudali genetic crossed groups of cows in Western Highlands of Cameroon

The aim of this study was to evaluate factors affecting daily milk yield, lactation peak milk and calving interval lactation peak of Jersey-White Fulani and Holstein-Gudali genetic crossed groups of cows in Western Highlands of Cameroon. Data on 404 genetic crossed cows obtained from the database of the Institute of Agricultural Research for Development (IRAD) of Bambui in the Western Highlands of Cameroon were used. These genetic crossed cows were results of crosses between imported Jersey (J) and Holstein (H) bull semen with local White Fulani (WF) and Gudali (G) cows. Results obtained revealed that only daily milk yield (DMY) varied significantly between the different genetic crossed groups of cows. Daily milk yield, lactation peak milk (LPM) and calving interval lactation peak (CILP) tended to increase with exotic blood level. Cows with 70% of Holstein exotic blood (75%Hx25%G) recorded the highest LPM (14.51 ± 2.97 kg) and the longest CILP (39.86 ± 9.89 days) being the highest DMY (6.74 ± 0.41kg) was in 50%Hx50%G genetic crossed group. Genetic crossed group II (75%Jx25%WF) registered the lowest DMY (5.59 ± 0.43 kg) and the lowest LPM (10.46 ± 1.16 kg) meanwhile the shortest CILP (27.19 ± 3.68 days) was obtained with genetic crossed group I (50%Jx50%WF). Performances obtained for both DMY, LPM and CILP with Holstein-Gudali (50%Hx50%G and 75%Hx25%G) crossed as compared to Jersey-White Fulani crossed revealed their high productive potential through their adaptability capacity to harsh conditions of tropics.

Discovery and conservation of Monanthotaxis bali (Annonaceae) a new Critically Endangered (possibly extinct) montane forest treelet from Bali Ngemba, North West Region, Cameroon

SummaryMonanthotaxis bali is the only known, solely montane (occurring solely above 2000 m alt.) species of the genus. It joins M. orophila (Rwanda) and M. discolor (Tanzania), two other species that can also occur above 2000 m alt. Monanthotaxis bali is an addition to the small number (28) of the tree species of the surviving montane forests of the Cameroon Highlands of which only eight other species are endemic. Due to its supra-axillary inflorescences, and petals arranged in one whorl but with the outer petals overlapping the inner petals distally, and rounded flower buds, the new species is placed in Monanthotaxis clade B of Hoekstra. The new species is unusual in having the largest outer petals in clade B, in being a treelet in a predominantly lianescent genus, and in lacking the glaucous underside of the leaf-blades that usually characterises the genus. Monanthotaxis bali takes the number of continental African species of the genus to 80, and makes Cameroon, with 30 species, the most species-diverse country for the genus. Monanthotaxis bali is known only from the Bali Ngemba Forest Reserve, a forest remnant under great pressure of degradation and clearance in the Bamenda Highlands of Cameroon. The case for protecting Bali Ngemba for its unique plant biodiversity is made. Monanthotaxis bali may already be extinct due to logging and agricultural activities. Here it is described, illustrated, mapped and assessed as Critically Endangered (Possibly Extinct) using the IUCN 2012 criteria.

The Bamilekes and Geo-architecture in the Mechanisms of Defense and Security: An Attempt at a Historical-Anthropological Study Based on the Alignment of the Buildings and Structures in the Grassfields Chieftaincies of West Cameroon Between the 15th and 19th Centuries

The sudden and massive arrival of the Bamileke on the highlands of West Cameroon between the 15th and 16th centuries A.D. through spontaneous, sporadic and sometimes disorganized migratory waves, marked an unprecedented change in the socio-cultural evolution and political configuration of the region. Indeed, this had led not only to the progressive populating of the entire plateau, but also to the beginning of the first real organized and structured political entities, namely the chiefdoms. The matrimonial social system of Bamileke polygamy generated an exponential demographic growth inherent to a strong uncontrolled dynamic that systematically exerted enormous pressure on the exploitation of natural resources, which in addition to being already scarce was also static. The Bamileke in a survivalist spirit tried to control vital spaces such as water, land, hunting grounds, etc., which unleashed the hegemonic impulses and antagonistic bellicosity of these tribes; one against the other thus plunging the whole region into a turbulent atmosphere characterized by conquest struggles and raids. Indeed, the Bamileke, faced with the permanent challenges of instability and insecurity, in a logic of survival, will appeal to geography to protect themselves. This article aims to demonstrate the contribution of geography in Bamileke architecture as a basic defensive and security support. A genuine interest was noted in the involvement of geography in the development and elaboration of defense and security techniques and strategies in Bamileke land. The study revealed that geography had always played a decisive role not only in the migratory path of this people but had also punctuated the choice of their position at altitude on the plateau, including that of their spiritual conception. This research combined both documentary analysis and oral source approaches.

Farmers' local knowledge of soil fertility in bamboo plantations in the Western Highlands, Cameroon

Cameroon is strongly committed to restoring degraded land through the sustainable use of bamboo and other non-timber forest products (NTFPs) for biodiversity conservation, sustainable livelihoods, and reduction of CO2 emissions. However, research has not yet revealed how bamboo is perceived locally in production zones where most harvested species are wild and from natural forests. This assessed the local perception and knowledge of farmers in the Western Highlands of Cameroon on soil fertility in bamboo plantations. Ethnopedological surveys were conducted using semi-structured questionnaires in three departments of the Western Region. During the study, three focus groups were organized, followed by direct field observations and individual interviews with 200 people. The easily identifiable indicators used were soil colour, texture, fertility status, and water-holding capacity. The majority of respondents (67.5%) stated that the soils of bamboo plantations are infertile and not suitable for agriculture, 18.5% found these soils very fertile and suitable for agriculture and 14% found them moderate. The main points cited by farmers as positive for the use of bamboo are the fight against landslides and the reduction of soil erosion (33% and 30.5% of respondents, respectively). The main negative points cited were the invasive effect of bamboo and the extensive root system in the soil (52.5% and 15.5% of respondents respectively). To facilitate the adoption of bamboo in restoration projects in Cameroon, it is important to integrate farmers’ views into the policy formulation process. The results presented in this study will facilitate dialogue among farmers, agronomic advisors, and researchers. Policymakers and planners will also be beneficiaries of the research, and will be enabled to propose solutions for the better planning of restoration activities on bamboo.

Nutritive value of forages consumed by ruminants during the dry season in the Western Highlands of Cameroon

AbstractBackgroundIn the Western Highlands of Cameroon (WHC), information on the nutritional value of fodder species consumed by ruminants is very limited.MethodsThrough interviews with farmers and monitoring of animals on the range, information was obtained on the types of fodder resources consumed by the ruminants. Samples of each forage species were collected in 15 districts, mixed, chopped, and dried in a ventilated oven at 60°C, and then ground for chemical composition analysis.ResultsTwenty‐two forage species were identified. Among these species, Vernonia amygdalina (29.43% ± 0.45% dry matter [DM]) and Pennisetum clandestinum (87.21% ± 1.33% DM) were, respectively, the highest in protein and neutral detergent fiber contents. Manihot esculenta was one of the most energy‐rich forages in terms of forage unit for lactation and forage unit for meat production. Hierarchical ascending classification revealed three main groups of forages, respectively, rich in crude fiber (Group 1), protein (Group 2), and energy (Group 3).ConclusionsThe present study identified 22 forage species browsed by ruminants in WHC. Further studies should be carried out to determine the antinutritional factors and to evaluate their nutrient value using in vitro or in situ digestibility techniques.