Research
Constitutionality and Forest Governance in the Bakossi Landscape
Field research on how traditional institutions and constitutionality principles shape forest governance in South West Cameroon.
Abstract
This MSc thesis investigates how six constitutionality principles, centred on local perceptions, participatory processes, institutional recognition, and external influence, shape bottom up forest governance in the Bakossi Landscape of Cameroon. It examines the interaction between traditional councils, Indigenous institutions, and formal conservation frameworks through extensive qualitative fieldwork.
Key findings
- Indigenous institutions play a decisive governance role when they are formally recognised within national conservation frameworks.
- Emic (insider) perspectives and power asymmetries are central to whether forest management is accepted locally.
- State recognition of grassroots institutions strengthens, rather than competes with, sustainable outcomes.
- Integrating local knowledge with national policy is a precondition for durable forest governance.
Methodology
Qualitative field research: focus groups and key informant interviews with traditional councils and conservation officers, analysed against six constitutionality principles.