Biodiversity Exploitation for Traditional Healthcare Delivery in Montane Forest Communities: Case of Belo and Njinikom Sub-Divisions in Cameroon

Abstract

Biodiversity exploitation in montane highlands remain an important source of raw materials for traditional healthcare delivery, survival and sustenance of the population in communities that are reliant thereof. Belo and Njinikom Sub-Divisions on the fringes of the Ijim Montane forest stronghold are rich in biodiversity resources though under degradation. The exploitation of the biodiversity have thrived a spectre of traditional healing practices hatched by indigenous knowledge. The edgy perception of being socially irrelevant, illusory and ill-suited by the state and modern hospitals are sullying this practice. This study was based on the premise that traditional healing practices are the major ways in which biodiversity is exploited and used for traditional healthcare provision. The methodology uses correlational and comparative research designs of field investigations. Purposive random sampling technique was used to administer 250 questionnaires to selected key respondents from the entire population. Findings reveal that the practice of traditional healing is enshrined in the mysteries of indigenous knowledge which is methodical in concoctions, decoctions, injections, ritual practices and incantations, which to an extent have bestowed effective healthcare to contemporary communities through resources they find it hard to stay aloof. This study posits that if the state, modern hospitals and tradi-practitioners holistically find common ground through collaborative agreements, such issuant and commonplace signatures would continue to support the current shady healthcare tragedy. It shall provide the communities with solutions to some indigenous diseases still portraying dreadful hallmarks and being a nuisance to the population where general welfare of all and sundry ought to be esteemed and primeval.