PEOPLE AND SOCIAL ORGANIZATIONS IN GRIBE, SOUTHEASTERN CAMEROON

Abstract

Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) continue to draw attention due to their direct potential to increase the income of Bantu women and Baka Pygmies, who do not grow commercial crops (e.g., cacao). Until recently, Bantu men managed these forest resources; however, NTFPs have become commercialized, which has led to the formation of community associations with women as core members. This paper examines the role of the resident associations and the problems they encounter as they attempt ensure the sustainable use of NTFPs. It describes the composition of the village and the families that reside there, the ethnically-based distinctions in social status, and the socio-economic changes in the area. Even though village politics are centered around the Bantu chief, the relationships among different clans and lineages within the village remain characterized by latent social tensions and conflicts. The present-day local associations strongly reflect social relationships in the local communities. For example, Baka men and women are not included in these associations despite the fact that NTFPs are important to their livelihood. The socio-economic changes related to NTFPs have provided the Bantu, who have gained economic power, with a distinctive advantage. This study examined how the local residents in southeastern Cameroon changed their lifestyle and social associations to adapt to new social and economic conditions in the country. Ultimately, the research indicates the need for a social system that guarantees both improvements in the standard of living and the sustainable use of forest products for all groups involved.