Linking Socioeconomic Vulnerability with Mineral Exploration Opportunities for Local Development Planning in the Noun Division, Cameroon

Mineral exploration can create opportunities for employment, local procurement and livelihood diversification, but its contribution to development depends on existing socioeconomic conditions. This study examines socioeconomic vulnerability across the Noun Division, Cameroon, and its relationship with a previously finalized lithostructural exploration framework. A relative Socio-Economic Vulnerability Index (SEVI) was constructed for nine subdivisions using seven dimensions: education, health, potable water, electricity, housing, roads and markets. Ranking robustness was assessed through leave-one-dimension-out and hypothetical input-perturbation sensitivity analyses. SEVI values range from 0.039 in Foumban to 0.886 in Bangourain, with Bangourain, Massangam, Njimom and Malantouen exhibiting Very High vulnerability. Rankings remained stable across sensitivity scenarios (Spearman’s ρ = 0.95–1.00). Within seven geophysically covered subdivisions, SEVI showed a strong positive association with structural intersection density (ρ = 0.893; exact p = 0.0123), whereas other structural-density associations were not statistically significant. This exploratory relationship neither demonstrates mineral deposits nor guarantees socioeconomic benefits. Rather, it identifies territories where future exploration could interact with infrastructure constraints, service deficits and land-dependent livelihoods. Integrating socioeconomic vulnerability into early-stage exploration planning can therefore support livelihood protection, community participation, infrastructure prioritization and inclusive local development.