Context:
The ‘BSB Yamoussa’ transboundary complex comprises the Sena Oura (Chad) and Bouba Ndjidda (Cameroon) national parks. It is one of the most biodiverse regions in the Sudan-Guinea Savanna. However, the complex is not protected sufficiently, as expertise, data and clear use rights are lacking. The population in the buffer zones is among the region’s poorest. It relies heavily on natural resources such as soil, animals and plants and has limited economic prospects. Women are at a particular disadvantage. The growing population, resource conflicts, inefficient land use, a lack of alternatives and unclear use rights are impacting biodiversity protection in the BSB Yamoussa complex.
Objective:
The buffer zones of the transboundary BSB-Yamoussa complex in Cameroon and Chad are being managed in an environmentally friendly manner, which protects biodiversity in the long term.
Approach:
The project operates in three areas:
In the buffer zones of the national park, it sets up areas in order to maintain nature and use it responsibly. It involves the local population in this process. It works with the governments to legally establish the zones as a transboundary biosphere.
The project trains the administration staff working in the protected areas on how to plan (with the participation of the population), set up special protection zones and record data in the buffer zones of the national parks, for example on animal and plant species.
It also supports a local organisation in developing a training programme for farmers. This aims to support the green cultivation of land and promote local earnings.