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Our News
From Forest Stewards to Tourism Leaders: Communities Take the Lead in Conservation
In a landmark move for conservation and community empowerment, the Bangem and Tombel local councils in Cameroon have officially committed to placing ecotourism in the hands of the communities that live in and protect the forests of the Bakossi-Banyang Mbo landscape. This marks a major shift toward inclusive, community-led conservation.
This progress is the result of sustained policy advocacy by the Community Action for Development (CAD) and its civil society partners.
Their efforts led both councils to adopt the Community-Based Sustainable Tourism (CBST) strategy into their official Council Development Plans (CDPs), signalling a transition from top-down governance to community ownership of ecotourism.
More than a symbolic gesture, the agreement includes a detailed roadmap outlining responsibilities, timelines, and implementation steps.
Signed by the Mayors and CAD leadership, it ensures CBST will be integrated into long-term planning, budgeting, and decision- making.
Using the roadmap as a springboard, efforts are underway to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with both councils on the review of the CDPs to include key aspects of the CBST strategy.
Martin Etone, who leads Community Action for Development (CAD), emphasized that, “It’s a powerful example of grassroots action—where communities lead, councils enable, and nature thrives. This model of inclusive development is one that donors and partners can confidently support and scale.”
This partnership redefines the role of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs) as key drivers of conservation and sustainable development. By empowering communities, the councils are advancing both environmental protection and local economic growth.
© WWF CFP
Mbororo Community in horse ride display
© WWF CFP
Community meeting with CAD
© WWFCFP
Traditional dish display