Livelihood Diversification and Adaptation Strategies among Internally Displaced Persons in Urban Bamenda, Cameroon

Abstract

In the extensive literature on migration and displacements, the source and spatio-temporal evolution of internally displaced persons (IDPs) are well documented. While much has been written, about the causes and patterns of IDPs in several parts of the world, context specific studies on livelihood strategies of displaced persons particularly in urban settings remains insufficient. This forestalls policy interventions aimed at addressing the plight of the IDPs. Using Bamenda as a Cameroonian case, this study (a) analyses the origins of the IDPs and their displacement drivers (b) assesses the livelihood diversification strategies of the IDPs, and (c) evaluates the level of satisfaction of the IDPs with the livelihood diversification activities. A structured questionnaire was developed and administered using convenient and snowball non probability sampling techniques to 150 households(n=150) in Bamenda I, II and III municipalities. Data from structured interviews(n=5) and focus group discussions(n=2) was used to complement information from questionnaire. The quantitative data set was analysed descriptively with the aid of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Version 25.0). Frequencies and percentages were calculated and the results presented using tables and bar charts. The finding of the study revealed the following conclusions: Firstly, IDPs originate from six divisions of the northwest region. The highest number of IDPs (26%) come from Boyo Division and the least (8%) from Menchum Division. Amongst other reasons, 85% of the respondents indicated that the main reason for their displacement is the ongoing conflict between the separatist fighters and government forces. Secondly, the IDPs are involved in diverse on farm (46.7%), off farm (35.3%) and non-farm activities (58.7%). Thirdly, over 90% of the IDPs are not satisfied with the livelihood diversification activities. This study contributes to the theoretical debate on forced migration and livelihood diversification in the context of an urban setting. These findings provide a framework for the development of a policy instrument that can guide assistance to IDPs as a means of improving their livelihood and living standards. Further studies could focus on a comparative analysis of the livelihood adaptation strategies of IDPs in some selected neighborhoods in Bamenda.