Cocoa Value Chain Dynamics and Agroforestry Pathways in Kumba, Cameroon: Balancing Livelihoods and Forest Conservation

Abstract This study examines the cocoa market chain in Kumba Municipality, South West Region, Cameroon, with a focus on its implications for deforestation and the potential of non-timber forest product (NTFP) agroforestry systems to reconcile livelihood improvement with biodiversity conservation. Primary data were collected from 60 farmers, 15 informal intermediaries (coaxers), 15 formal intermediaries, and 3 exporters using structured questionnaires and stratified purposive sampling. Results reveal inequitable profit distribution along the chain: farmers earned 25 FCFA/kg, coaxers 55 FCFA/kg, formal intermediaries 61 FCFA/kg, and exporters 67 FCFA/kg, indicating market inefficiency. Paired sample t-tests showed that cocoa income contributions were statistically significant for coaxers and formal intermediaries (p=0.001), but not for farmers (p=0.580) or exporters (p=0.066). Key constraints included socio-political insecurity, poor road conditions, high agrochemical costs, and labour shortages. Drawing parallels with broader deforestation drivers in Cameroon’s cocoa sector, this paper argues that the existing value chain structure incentivizes forest conversion. We propose the integration of cocoa-based agroforestry systems incorporating NTFPs as a strategy to enhance farmer incomes, reduce deforestation pressure, and conserve biodiversity. Policy recommendations include road infrastructure development, conflict resolution, and support for agroforestry adoption. Keywords: Cocoa value chain, deforestation, agroforestry, non-timber forest products (NTFPs), livelihoods, biodiversity conservation.