Importance, Value Addition and Marketing Chain of Mangrove Wood in Fako Division, South West Region, Cameroon

Abstract

Mangroves are highly productive ecosystems which are adapted to survive in harsh brackish water and at the interface between land and sea. This study examines the socio-economic and ecological importance of mangroves, value addition and marketing chain of mangrove wood in Fako. This study employed the cross- sectional research design. Data were obtained using primary and secondary sources. Primary data were obtained through field observations, structured interviews, focused group discussions and the administration of questionnaires. Secondary data were obtained from published and unpublished materials and reports. Data were entered using EpiData Version 3.1 and analyzed with the aid of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Data were presented using prose, frequency tables and illustrations. The study found out that mangroves serve socio-economic and ecological, functions to the population. Also, mangrove wood is harvested from major areas such as Tiko and Mudeka, and sold throughout the coastal settlements of Mutengene, Buea and Limbe. This is achieved through value addition and commercialisation of mangrove wood. The study recommended the implementation of legal and institutional framework, community participation and integrated management of shared resources and strict enforcement of other international legal instruments ratified by member countries such as the Ramsar Convention and Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) so as to better conserve mangrove forests.