SUSTAINING NATURAL RESOURCES THROUGH FARMER-GRAZER CONFLICT RESOLUTION IN SANTA SUB-DIVISION, CAMEROON

In the North West Region of Cameroon, specifically in Mezam Division, disputes between farmers and grazers over land ownership have been a persistent and controversial issue, according to Fisiy (1992). For this reason, it is essential to have legal protection against such disputes. The study's focus is on resolving farmer-grazer conflicts in the Santa subdivision in the northwest of Cameroon in order to sustain natural resources. A quantitative approach using a questionnaire was employed, whereas semi-structured interviews and observation were included in qualitative study approaches. Both public and unofficial sources of secondary data, as well as the internet, were employed equally. After the data was coded and analyzed, the following findings were obtained: Although encroachments into grazing land are one of the contributing elements to disputes between farmers and grazing in this area, other variables also play a role. As a result, the grazers accuse the farmers of encroaching on their grazing property, while the farmers accuse the grazers of trespassing and encroaching. The primary cause of conflicts is not limited to disputes over drinking water supplies. Second, "The primary players in resolving farmer/grazer conflicts in the study area are not MBOSCUD and administrative authorities." The findings indicated that farmers and grazers are regarded as one of the primary actors in conflict management, in addition to the actors already stated. The majority of people no longer trust the government and would rather talk things out to resolve their disagreements and live in harmony with the community. Thirdly, farmer-grazer confrontations have repercussions beyond a decrease in food production, such as causing division and hostility. Tensions, activity cessation, and the depletion of natural resources are among them. Lastly, "A dispute between a farmer and a grazer that can sustain natural resources cannot be resolved only by dialogue." Though communication appears to be the most significant, other crucial actions include the demarcation of farming and grazing area. KEY WORDS: Farmer-Grazer Conflict; Natural Resources; sustainability