Introduction

Ecotourism, as a form of responsible tourism, has emerged as a preferred model for discovering and valuing natural and cultural heritage while supporting the sustainable development of regions. In Cameroon, this approach not only helps preserve the environment and protect ecosystems but also stimulates the local economy by attracting foreign visitors and foreign exchange. However, despite its undeniable benefits, ecotourism faces multiple challenges, both environmental and security-related, that threaten its future and sustainability.

Advantages

Ecotourism is a powerful tool for biodiversity conservation, contributing to the preservation of protected areas and fragile ecosystems. It also promotes the protection of cultural heritage by showcasing historical, architectural, artisanal, religious, gastronomic, and literary elements of a region. Furthermore, it fosters wildlife and flora observation, allowing for a better understanding of local landscapes and ecosystems. A concrete example is the northern region of Cameroon, with tourist sites such as the Bouba Njida National Park, home to unique wildlife like the black buffalo. These economic benefits directly support local communities by creating jobs in handicrafts, catering, and tour guide services, thereby enhancing their financial autonomy.

Threats

However, despite its benefits, ecotourism in Cameroon faces several major obstacles. Around national parks, criminal networks have formed, leading to a significant increase in cross-border poaching, especially in the Bouba Ndjida National Park, the country’s largest wildlife habitat. This phenomenon also extends to the Waza National Park, where local poaching is steadily increasing. Furthermore, insecurity caused by terrorist group Boko Haram in the border regions, illegal gold mining, cattle migration, and climate change exacerbate the situation. The lack of appropriate road infrastructure and weak management and monitoring systems add another layer of difficulty in promoting sustainable ecotourism. The degradation of ecological corridors and the reduction of natural habitats also threaten the survival of iconic species, thus diminishing the long-term tourist appeal.

Conclusion

Thus, while ecotourism is a sustainable development opportunity for Cameroon, its effective implementation remains fragile due to complex challenges. Preserving ecosystems and valuing cultural heritage are ambitious goals, but their achievement depends on the establishment of security measures, the fight against poaching, and the development of suitable infrastructure. A true commitment from the authorities and local stakeholders is needed to ensure the sustainability of ecotourism and make this sector a driver of economic and environmental development for the country. Raising awareness among local populations and training them in ecotourism practices could also strengthen the resilience of communities in the face of these challenges.