On the occasion of the 2024 World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought causes of land degradation and depleting soil microorganisms have been brought to the limelight.
According to Ngalim Franklin inadequate waste management practices also contribute significantly to desertification, urging for improvements in sustainable waste disposal methods.
Highlighting endemic issues, such as overgrazing, urbanization, wetland reclamation, and quarrying, the experts identified these as key factors accelerating desertification in the Bamenda Highlands.In the community of Kejom Keku (“Big Babanki”), it was noted that native tree species like “Pronus Africana” are being replaced by water-intensive exotic species such as eucalyptus, unsuitable for the region’s ecosystem.
They recommended a shift towards replanting indigenous trees, which are more ecologically suitable and sustainable.
The Bamenda Highlands, crucial for water catchment in the North West, are facing a severe water crisis and drought due to extensive land exploitation.
Environmentalists like Tambe Ebai Maurice Agbor, stressed the urgent need for enhanced environmental education to raise public awareness and encourage proactive measures against desertification.
They called for integrated land use planning, secure land tenure systems, and the development of local policies to effectively manage land resources and mitigate desertification.
As the region experiences visible signs of desertification, these recommendations underscore the critical actions needed to combat environmental degradation and ensure sustainable land management practices.
Sylvie Bantar
