Abstract

Wetland ecosystems and the fisheries that depend on them are vital to the survival of million individuals in poor nations. Although this habitat is contracting because of heavy pressure brought on by the expansion of the population and the increase of human activity in Cameroon. Yet it is crucial to evaluate the management practices used to ensure its durability. In this study, we look into wetland stakeholders' perspectives. Therefore, it is important to assess the management to make a strategic suggestion for the formulation of a national strategy. Totaling, 277 individuals were interviewed from the Rio del Rey, Ebogo, Barombi, and the Cameroonian portion of Ntem wetlands, and Dschang's municipal lake. The samples were taken utilizing a structured questionnaire between 4 February and 20 July 2001, when fishing was at its peak. Results show that 95.6% of management actors believe that this ecosystem is significant and valuable (χ²=21.965; ddl = 15; P=0.015); furthermore, the results show that 86.7% of respondents are unaware of any laws or other legal instruments that are currently in effect. From one site to another, there were substantial differences in how local management committees were seen (χ²=27.29; P<0.05). Additionally, various institutional issues discussed include the following: weak institutional cooperation (28%)> inadequate legislative policy (24%)> conflicts of interest (21%)> inadequate funding (18%)> lack of political will on the part of the authorities (6%%)> inadequately qualified people (3%). The study also shows that Cameroon's wetland suffers from a lack of adequate restrictions. Consequently, it is essential to implement wetland management strategy.

Key words: Wetlands, national strategy, sustainable management, perception, Cameroon.