VALORISING DEVELOPMENT POTENTIALS IN MOUNTAINOUS LANDSCAPES: THE CASE OF THE KOM HIGHLANDS IN THE NORTH WEST REGION OF CAMEROON

Abstract

This study identifies and analyses the development potentials of the Komhighlands. The extent to which the physical and economic potentials of the Kom-highlands have been valorised to serve as a springboard for socioeconomic development and poverty alleviation constitutes the main focus of this paper. To gather data for this study, ground verification was done through field visits to clearly identify the development potentials of the area. Interviews, field observations and focus group discussions were the main sources of primary data. Complementary data was obtained from secondary sources through the consultation of records obtained from the municipal councils of Belo, Njinikom and Fundong Subdivisions. Data obtained was analysed quantitatively and qualitatively and presented using cartographic and graphical techniques. The findings revealed that the Kom-highlands though mountainous are a haven of potentials for development. The physical landscape of the study area is in itself a huge touristic potential that is yet to be exploited. It therefore takes only proper adaptation strategies and the enhancement of indigenous knowledge for the huge potentials of the Kom-highlands to be harnessed for a better livelihood and for the sustainability of the mountain ecosystem. The climate and soils remain assets for agricultural development. The cultural diversity and the indigenous knowledge of the inhabitants are great assets     for economic development which have not yet been fully exploited for the betterment of livelihoods. Valorising the rich physical and economic potentials of this study area through sustainable exploitation and improving on living standards and lifestyles is what this paper strongly recommends to the stakeholders of development in this area and in areas with similar characteristics and potentials for development.