Approaches and Drivers of Land Resource Management in Highland Communities: Reflections from Bui Division, Cameroon

Land resource management approaches have often generated complex challenges that manifest in unsustainable practices and outcomes. In Bui Division, there exist veritable geographical absurdities in land resource management approaches depicted in ecological dynamics, scarce land-based resources under degradation, uncontrolled exploitation in sensitive milieus and vulnerability to natural and man-made hazards. Planning irrationalities exist in the political ecology manifest by imperialist philosophies. This study investigates the major approaches and socio-ecological drivers influencing land resource management in highlands areas. Primary data were collected through direct observations, 504 questionnaires, formal and informal interviews in the three tribal communities, representing 20% of the population. Secondary data were obtained from published and unpublished sources. Findings reveal diverse land resource management approaches marked by the dynamics of multi-sectoral and multi-stakeholder interactions activities, interests, tools, approaches and socio-ecological drivers that significantly vary. Land acquisition and management approaches are guided by the Land Ordinance No 74-1 of 6th July 1974. The spatio-temporal dynamics displays 60% of the population employing participatory management approaches inclined on multiple socio-ecological drivers. Sustainable approaches (78%) are associated with strong relationships between intercommunity management interests, activities, tools and approaches. This study posits that holistic community participatory approaches are suitable land management signatures reversing the current tragedy of the commons and promoting resource sustainability. This is increasingly evident in highland vulnerable areas where the general welfare of all and sundry is primordial and ought to be valued and sustained.