TITLE:
Exploring Human-Carnivore Conflict around the Bouba Ndjidda National Park, North Region, Cameroon
AUTHORS:
Yves R. Donfack, Pricelia N. Tumenta, Ervis D. Manfothang, Abdoulai A. Shidiki, Serge P. Tadjo, Serge A. Kamgang
KEYWORDS:
Human-Carnivore Conflict, Wildlife Conservation, Livelihood, Bouba-Ndjidda NP, Cameroon
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Forestry,
Vol.16 No.3,
July
16,
2026
ABSTRACT: Human-wildlife conflict is a major challenge to conservation efforts in local communities abutting protected and conserved areas. This study was carried out to explore human-carnivore conflict (HCC) around Bouba Ndjidda National Park from April-May 2024 with the objective to gain insight on the interactions between humans and carnivores. Data was collected through focus group discussions organized in 13 villages. Purposeful sampling carried out at the end of each focus group enabled quantification of damage caused by carnivores. A semi-structured questionnaire was also administered to resource persons, nine (9) in total including stakeholders in sectorial Ministries and NGOs involved in conservation of biodiversity. The results revealed two types of HCC including livestock depredation (76%) and human casualties (24%). HCC was associated to poor livestock husbandry practices (35%) and increasing wildlife populations (35%). Livestock depredation was caused most by Hyaena (75%) followed by lion (19%) and civet (6%). Predation by carnivores was reported as the most troubling form of HCC (92%). The main consequence of HCC in the surveyed villages was economic loss (25%) with 5,496,000 FCFA ($ 9, 791.68 US Dollars) estimated losses linked to livestock depredation.