Drivers of the water–energy–food nexus in Cameroon and implications for sustainable development

Abstract Concerted efforts towards integrating water, energy, food, and ecosystem services remain critical for managing natural resources and building resilience in developing economies. This study examines the interdependent relationships between the water–energy–food (WEF) nexus, focusing on factors that interplay to drive resource security and sustainability in Cameroon. Using national-level data from 2000 to 2021, we employ the simultaneous equation model (SEM) with structural equations and use the 2SLS estimator with instrument variables (IV) to evaluate the level of interaction between the nexus components. The results indicate that urban population growth significantly increases water consumption by 13.17%. Industrial and economic growth increase energy consumption by 0.39%, while an increase in energy supply per capita raises food production by 2.81%. System analysis indicates that population growth has a holistic impact on all subsystems, with significant negative effects on the water subsystem. Policy and Institutions for sustainable development and Cultivated Area, also generated holistic effects with positive impacts on the food subsystem. Water-use efficiency also forms a key nexus point, positively increasing food production and reducing water consumption. A major feedback loop occurs where an increase in food production leads to a decrease in water resources (− 0.82%), resulting in a reduction in energy production (− 0.51%) and a potential decline in food production (− 4.51%). This study enhances nexus modeling in developing economies, allowing for resource optimization through effective cultivated area management, water-use efficiency, and institutional advancement. A paradigm change towards effective WEF nexus integration is essential for maintaining resource security and high-level human development with minimal environmental impact in developing countries.