98pages, A Baseline Assessment Of Land Use And Livelihood Practices Of In-Park Villages In The Korup National Park (KNP), South West Region, Cameroon

CHAPTER ONE

Background to the Study

Land Use And Livelihood Practices Of In-Park Villages In The Korup National Park . The term “land use” refers to how land is utilized for various purposes, including agriculture, housing, and conservation. It encompasses the management and modification of natural environments into built environments. The focus keyword, land use and livelihood practices of in-park villages in the Korup National Park, emphasizes the relationship between the ways land is used by local communities and their strategies for sustaining their livelihoods within and around the park. Understanding this relationship is critical for effective management of natural resources and for ensuring that local communities benefit from the conservation of their environment.

Korup National Park (KNP), located in the South West Region of Cameroon, is one of the oldest and most biodiverse rainforests in Africa. The park is home to numerous species of flora and fauna, many of which are endemic and threatened. However, the presence of in-park villages poses unique challenges and opportunities for both conservation and local livelihoods. These villages often rely on the park’s resources for their daily survival, engaging in practices such as farming, fishing, and gathering non-timber forest products. While these activities are essential for the livelihoods of local communities, they can also lead to environmental degradation if not managed sustainably.

The land use and livelihood practices of in-park villages in the Korup National Park are shaped by a variety of factors, including cultural traditions, economic needs, and environmental conditions. Many villagers depend on the park for resources such as bushmeat, medicinal plants, and building materials. However, as the population grows and external pressures increase, the sustainability of these practices comes into question. Overexploitation of resources can lead to habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity, which ultimately affects the livelihoods of those who depend on these ecosystems. Thus, assessing the current land use and livelihood practices in these villages is essential for identifying challenges and opportunities for sustainable development.

Land Use and Livelihood Practices of In-Park Villages in the Korup National Park
The land use and livelihood practices of in-park villages in the Korup National Park involve a complex interplay between traditional knowledge and modern economic pressures. Many communities have developed sustainable practices over generations, utilizing the park’s resources in ways that maintain ecological balance. For instance, shifting cultivation, where land is cleared for short-term agriculture and then left to regenerate, has traditionally allowed communities to produce food while preserving forest areas. However, as external demands for land and resources increase, these practices are changing.

The introduction of cash crops, such as cocoa and oil palm, has altered traditional land use patterns. While these crops can provide higher income, they often come at the cost of deforestation and biodiversity loss. The shift towards more intensive agricultural practices can lead to soil degradation and water scarcity, further threatening the livelihoods of local communities. Therefore, it is crucial to evaluate how these changes in land use affect both the environment and the livelihoods of the people living in and around Korup National Park.

Furthermore, the land use and livelihood practices of in-park villages are influenced by policies and regulations related to conservation. The establishment of the national park has created protected areas that restrict certain activities, leading to conflicts between conservation objectives and local needs. Many villagers may view conservation efforts as a threat to their livelihoods, resulting in resistance to regulations that limit their access to resources. Understanding these dynamics is essential for developing strategies that can reconcile conservation goals with the socio-economic needs of local communities.

The Need for a Baseline Assessment
Conducting a baseline assessment of land use and livelihood practices of in-park villages in the Korup National Park is necessary for several reasons. First, it provides essential data that can inform conservation strategies and land management practices. By understanding current land use patterns and the associated livelihood practices, stakeholders can identify areas where intervention is needed to promote sustainability. Second, a baseline assessment can help to document the knowledge and practices of local communities, which are often overlooked in conservation planning. This recognition is vital for fostering community engagement and support for conservation initiatives.

Additionally, a thorough understanding of the land use and livelihood practices of in-park villages can facilitate the development of policies that benefit both conservation and local communities. Integrating traditional knowledge with modern conservation strategies can lead to more effective management of natural resources. Moreover, involving local communities in decision-making processes can enhance their commitment to sustainable practices and improve their livelihoods. Ultimately, this baseline assessment aims to bridge the gap between conservation efforts and local livelihoods, ensuring that both can thrive.

Problem Statement
Despite the importance of understanding land use and livelihood practices of in-park villages in the Korup National Park, there is a significant gap in research regarding these dynamics. While the park is recognized for its biodiversity and conservation value, the specific practices of local communities living within and around the park are often overlooked. This oversight poses challenges for effective resource management and conservation strategies. Without a clear understanding of how land is currently being used and the livelihoods that depend on these practices, it is difficult to implement policies that support both environmental sustainability and community well-being.

The lack of comprehensive data on land use and livelihood practices means that interventions may not adequately address the needs of local communities or the ecological realities of the park. Many villagers may engage in unsustainable practices out of economic necessity, driven by pressures from population growth and market demands. Furthermore, the potential conflicts between conservation goals and local interests can lead to resistance against conservation initiatives. Therefore, assessing the baseline conditions of land use and livelihood practices in the Korup National Park is critical for identifying opportunities for sustainable development.

This study aims to fill this knowledge gap by conducting a thorough assessment of the land use and livelihood practices of in-park villages in the Korup National Park. By gathering data on current practices, challenges, and opportunities, the research seeks to provide insights that can inform conservation strategies and support the livelihoods of local communities. Understanding these dynamics is essential for fostering a harmonious relationship between conservation efforts and the needs of the people who depend on these vital resources.

Research Questions
What are the current land use practices of in-park villages in the Korup National Park, and how do these practices impact the environment?
How do local communities perceive the relationship between their livelihoods and the natural resources available in the Korup National Park?

What strategies can be implemented to promote sustainable land use and livelihood practices among in-park villages in the Korup National Park?
In conclusion, exploring the land use and livelihood practices of in-park villages in the Korup National Park is crucial for understanding the challenges and opportunities faced by local communities. By addressing these questions, the study aims to contribute to more effective conservation strategies that support both environmental sustainability and the livelihoods of the people living in and around the park.

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