Introduction

Cameroon, a country in Central Africa, is facing a growing climate phenomenon: drought. This scourge, which particularly affects the northern and Far North regions, severely impacts populations and the environment.

The Current State of Drought

Drought in the north is characterized by low and irregular rainfall, with annual precipitation often below 600 mm. Between 2010 and 2020, the area of land affected by drought in Cameroon increased by 30%. This situation is exacerbated by deforestation and land degradation, which contribute to the decrease in water resources and the advance of the desert. Even worse, the level of Lake Chad, which borders Cameroon to the north, has decreased by 90% since the 1960s.

Causes

Deforestation:

Deforestation deprives soils of their protective cover, making them more susceptible to erosion and drought. Cameroon has lost 20% of its forest cover between 1990 and 2020.

Expansion of agricultural land:

The conversion of forest land into agricultural land has contributed to soil degradation and the decrease in water resources.

Irrational exploitation of natural resources:

The overexploitation of natural resources, such as firewood and water, has contributed to environmental degradation and the worsening of drought.

Consequences

Food security:

Drought has led to reduced harvests and increased food prices. In 2022, more than 3 million people in Cameroon were in a situation of food insecurity.

Access to drinking water:

The decrease in water resources has made access to drinking water difficult for rural populations. Drought is responsible for 80% of diarrhea cases in Cameroon.

Conflicts and population displacement:

Drought has led to conflicts between farmers and herders over access to natural resources. In 2021, more than 100,000 people were displaced due to drought in the north.

Solutions

Climate-resilient agricultural practices:

Promoting climate-resilient agricultural practices, such as agroforestry and conservation agriculture, is essential to improve agricultural production and food security.

Reforestation and sustainable management of natural resources:

Reforestation and sustainable management of natural resources are essential to combat desertification and improve the resilience of populations.

Access to drinking water:

It is necessary to improve access to drinking water for rural populations, particularly by building wells and boreholes.

Awareness and education:

Raising awareness among populations about environmental issues and sustainable practices is essential to combat drought.

Conclusion

Drought in Cameroon is a complex problem that requires an urgent and concerted response. It is a national challenge that requires mobilization of all stakeholders. However, the government has implemented a number of initiatives, such as the National Action Plan to Combat Desertification and the National Irrigation and Agricultural Development Program. However, it is necessary to strengthen these initiatives and mobilize more resources to address the magnitude of the problem.