Community-Based Forest Management Practices and Biodiversity Conservation Near Mount Cameroon National Park: A Ten-Year Mixed Methods Evaluation

Mount Cameroon National Park (MCNP), a biodiversity hotspot in West Africa, faces challenges in maintaining ecosystem health due to human activities such as deforestation and overexploitation of natural resources. A mixed methods approach combining semi-structured interviews with focus groups (n=60) to gather qualitative data from local communities and expert assessments (n=15) for quantitative analysis of vegetation cover changes within the park boundaries. Significant increases in tree density were observed, particularly near managed areas where community engagement was high, indicating successful biodiversity conservation efforts. Community-based forest management practices have been effective in promoting biodiversity in MCNP; however, continued support and capacity building are needed to sustain these initiatives. Enhanced collaboration between local communities, government agencies, and international organizations is essential for maintaining long-term ecological stability near MCNP. Community Forest Management, Biodiversity Conservation, Mixed Methods Study, Mount Cameroon National Park