Biya is Sworn in; Crucial Expectations from Environmental Zealots

One of such issues according to the Conservator of  Kimbi-Fungom National Park, Mr. Jerry Kirenky Mbi, is to seek a lasting solution to the Anglophone crises, which is frustrating conservation efforts within the two English speaking Regions of Cameroon “Resolving the ongoing crisis will be a major achievement for his new mandate because, for the past six months, we have not accessed the park,” Mr. Kirenky said.

As far as the management of forest resources are concerned, Cameroon’s environmental management expert, Dr. Peter Mbile, expects President Paul Biya, to in his new mandate, transfer the management of community forests from the Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife (MINFOF) to the Ministry of Economy Planning, and Regional Development (MINEPAT), and  the Ministry of Small and Medium-size Enterprises, Social Economy and Handicrafts (MINPMESSA). This to him will make the sector to be managed like an enterprise.

“MINFOF is considered to have been at the root of 20 years of business failure by community forests in Cameroon.  Community Forests are supposed to be managed like a business. The management of community forests should thus, be transferred to MINEPAT and MINPMESSA, who are more likely to advance the enterprise agenda of Community Forests,” Dr. Mbile recommended.

To the Director of Biodiversity and Protected Area at the Environment and Rural Development Foundation, Samuel Ngueping, the President should use his new mandate to support national NGOs in the conservation of the country’s biodiversity. “The Head of State should allocate or increase financial support to national NGOs involved in biodiversity conservation. More partnership agreements should equally be signed between MINFOF and national/international NGOs to facilitate fundraising for biodiversity conservation and environmental management projects in the country,” he expounded.

Other issues highlighted needing the urgent intervention of President Paul as he takes office again for the next seven years, will include fighting against corruption, which has become an adamant menace to the conservation of Cameroon’s endangered biodiversity species, and law enforcement in and around the protected areas amongst others.

B. Shancho Ndimuh