The marginalization of Bantu women in forest management, Cameroon

The marginalisation of women in forest communities, particularly in Abonis, East Cameroon, has led to both socio-economic hardship and environmental degradation. Despite being the primary gatherers of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) and key actors in subsistence farming, women have traditionally been excluded from forest governance, leaving them without a voice in decisions that directly affect their livelihoods and local biodiversity. In Abonis, this exclusion has contributed to unsustainable logging, reduced availability of essential forest products, and increased vulnerability for households. Women are forced to travel further to collect NTFPs, often at the cost of time, health, and income. However, targeted interventions have begun to reverse this trend. With support from Action for Sustainable Development (ASD) and partners, women received training in agroforestry, nursery management, and sustainable beekeeping. They were also included in forest governance through a pioneering partnership with a legal female forestry operator. These initiatives resulted in the restoration of degraded land, the enrichment of agroforests, and the diversification of income sources. They also improved food security, climate resilience, and gender equity. The Abonis experience underscores the critical role of women in sustainable forest management and the importance of inclusive strategies to address both environmental and social challenges.