Contribution of Non-Timber Forest Product Valorisation to the Livelihood Assets of Local People in the Northern Periphery of the Dja Faunal Reserve, East Cameroon

Non-timber forest product (NTFP) valorisation significantly enhances the livelihood assets of local communities around the Dja Faunal Reserve (DFR) in East Cameroon, though NTFP revenue alone does not predict long-term improvements. A study analyzing data from 215 households across 32 villages found that individuals receiving training in efficient collection, drying, and conservation techniques earned higher revenues with greater livelihood impacts than untrained peers. These findings suggest that improving product quality and market access is critical for sustainable NTFP valorisation. The research employed factor analysis, Mann–Whitney U tests, and structural equation modelling to assess the relationship between NTFP practices, training, and livelihood outcomes.

Epanda, M. A., Tsafack Donkeng, R., Ngo Nonga, F., Frynta, D., Adi, N. N., Willie, J., & Speelman, S. (2020). Contribution of Non-Timber Forest Product Valorisation to the Livelihood Assets of Local People in the Northern Periphery of the Dja Faunal Reserve, East Cameroon. Forests, 11(9), 1019. https://doi.org/10.3390/f11091019