Mangroves Conservation in the Spotlight

The University of Douala has signed a partnership agreement with the Network for Preserving Mangroves, RCM, to plant and preserve mangroves in the Littoral Region.

During the ceremony, the National Coordinator for RCM, Dr. Gordon Ajionina said that the destruction of mangroves in Cameroon has gone too far because the population uses it for livelihood such as smoking of fish among other things. He further disclosed that government has signed so many conventions on the preservation of Mangroves.

According to experts from the Delegation of Environment, Protection of Nature and Sustainable Development, government is trying to improve the situation by providing alternatives to the people so as to stop them from using mangroves. Such alternatives include using wood burners, building solar energy and above all, trying to regenerate degraded areas.

According to the Rector of the University of Douala, Prof. Bruno Bekolo Ebe, mangrove is very important to the ecosystem. "M angroves play a role against climate change, preserve soil and biodiversity," he said. He further disclosed that mangroves have to be planted in 7000 square metres at the "Bois des Singes" neighbourhood. While revealing that the students had already planted five hectares of mangroves, he called on the entire community to work in collaboration.

The Littoral Governor, Joseph Beti Assomo under whose patronage the partnership was signed, said it is necessary for the community to work together to preserve carbon.