Research Article
Approaches and Drivers of Land Resource Management in Highland Communities: Reflections from Bui Division, Cameroon
Bailack Kevin Mbuh*
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 1, March 2026
Pages:
1-13
Received:
24 January 2026
Accepted:
3 February 2026
Published:
11 February 2026
Abstract: Land resource management approaches have often generated complex challenges that manifest in unsustainable practices and outcomes. In Bui Division, there exist veritable geographical absurdities in land resource management approaches depicted in ecological dynamics, scarce land-based resources under degradation, uncontrolled exploitation in sensitive milieus and vulnerability to natural and man-made hazards. Planning irrationalities exist in the political ecology manifest by imperialist philosophies. This study investigates the major approaches and socio-ecological drivers influencing land resource management in highlands areas. Primary data were collected through direct observations, 504 questionnaires, formal and informal interviews in the three tribal communities, representing 20% of the population. Secondary data were obtained from published and unpublished sources. Findings reveal diverse land resource management approaches marked by the dynamics of multi-sectoral and multi-stakeholder interactions activities, interests, tools, approaches and socio-ecological drivers that significantly vary. Land acquisition and management approaches are guided by the Land Ordinance No 74-1 of 6th July 1974. The spatio-temporal dynamics displays 60% of the population employing participatory management approaches inclined on multiple socio-ecological drivers. Sustainable approaches (78%) are associated with strong relationships between intercommunity management interests, activities, tools and approaches. This study posits that holistic community participatory approaches are suitable land management signatures reversing the current tragedy of the commons and promoting resource sustainability. This is increasingly evident in highland vulnerable areas where the general welfare of all and sundry is primordial and ought to be valued and sustained.
Abstract: Land resource management approaches have often generated complex challenges that manifest in unsustainable practices and outcomes. In Bui Division, there exist veritable geographical absurdities in land resource management approaches depicted in ecological dynamics, scarce land-based resources under degradation, uncontrolled exploitation in sensiti...
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Research Article
Comparison of Effect of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizer on Soil Chemical Properties in Spinach Production
Sabia Sultana,
Md. Redwanur Rahman*
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 1, March 2026
Pages:
14-23
Received:
11 March 2026
Accepted:
25 March 2026
Published:
10 April 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ajere.20261101.12
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Abstract: The research work was conducted in November 2024 at Field laboratory of Institute of Environmental Science, Rajshahi University Rajshahi to study the comparison of effect of organic and inorganic fertilizer on soil chemical properties in Spinach production. There were six treatments in this experiment. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Each block was compacted with a 6unit plot. Thus, the total numbers of unit plots were 18. The unit plot was 4m×1.25m = 5.0m2 having plot to plot 0.5m and 1m from surrounding the boundary. The unit plots were separated with earthen bunds to avoid nutrient transfer to besides plot by lateral seepage. This study evaluated the impact of six different soil treatments (T0–T5) on the dynamics of soil organic matter (SOM), macronutrients (N, P, K), and micronutrients (S, Zn, B) from pre-cultivation to post-harvest. Results indicate that while cultivation generally leads to nutrient depletion, specific management protocols can mitigate these losses and enhance soil fertility. Statistical analysis revealed that Total Nitrogen (TN) and Available Phosphorus (P) were significantly influenced by the treatments (and, respectively). Treatment T5 emerged as the superior protocol, achieving the highest net gains in TN (+0.04%) and Available P (+2.20 mg/kg). In contrast, the control (T0) and T2 experienced substantial phosphorus depletion (up to -10.02 mg/kg). A notable inverse relationship was observed between SOM and TN; while SOM decreased in most plots due to microbial mineralization, TN levels rose, suggesting a high rate of organic nitrogen conversion. Regarding micronutrients, Sulfur (S) and Boron (B) levels showed highly significant variations. T5 demonstrated the best performance in minimizing Sulfur loss (-1.46mg/kg) and maximizing Zinc (Zn) accumulation (+0.08mg/kg). Although changes in Exchangeable Potassium (K) and SOM were recorded as non-significant (NS), the numerical trends consistently favored T5 and T4 for maintaining nutrient stability. Overall, Treatment T5 provided the most balanced nutrient profile, effectively preventing the "nutrient mining" seen in other treatments. This study recommends T5 as an optimal strategy for sustaining soil health and ensuring long-term productivity in intensive cropping systems.
Abstract: The research work was conducted in November 2024 at Field laboratory of Institute of Environmental Science, Rajshahi University Rajshahi to study the comparison of effect of organic and inorganic fertilizer on soil chemical properties in Spinach production. There were six treatments in this experiment. The experiment was laid out in randomized comp...
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