Evaluating Groundwater Recharge Techniques in Cameroon: Toward Sustainable Water Policy and Planning

Groundwater recharge is the primary mechanism through which aquifers are replenished, playing a crucial role in water security across Sub-Saharan Africa. In Cameroon, where climatic, geological, and land-use patterns vary significantly, accurately estimating recharge rates is essential for sustainable groundwater management. This review synthesises six major methods for estimating groundwater recharge: lysimeters, the water balance method, groundwater table fluctuation (GTF), stable isotopes, chloride mass balance (CMB), and unsaturated zone modelling. The review contextualizes these methods within the Cameroonian and broader African settings, evaluating their applicability, data requirements, advantages, and limitations. The findings highlight the importance of method integration tailored to specific hydrogeological and climatic conditions, offering insights for researchers and policymakers aiming to secure groundwater resources in the region.