The montane forests of the Cameroon highlands region are considered to be a priority area for conservation on a global scale and are one of the most important centers of endemism on the African continent. This particular forest ecosystem covers mostly the volcanic chain of Mount Cameroon, Bamboutous and Bamenda highlands in western Cameroon. A critical watershed, these ecosystems are of conservation importance considering their high level endemic bird species such as the critically endangered banner man’s Turaco, endangered Banded Wattle-eye, primates such as Preuss’s monkeys (Cercopithecus preussi), drills (Mandrillus leucophaueus) and elephants although with very small populations due to poaching and habitat destruction.

Western Cameroonian crater lakes are known for their high traditional and economic values to surrounding local communities. Known for their extremely high scientific and conservation value they are prime examples of natural ecosystems “in a nutshell” because they harbor several of the few endemic crater-lake fish species-flocks in the world.

Today this ecosystem is seriously threatened by deforestation as a result of commercial and subsistent agriculture, human settlements by some of the regions with highest population densities in Cameroon.

Priority Actions

• Baseline biological and socio-economic data required for development management plans in at least two of the six lakes (preferably Barombi and Bermin)
• Quality scientific data to establish long term monitoring programs
• Conservation Action Plan for management of biodiversity of the sites
• Establishment of multi stakeholders’ consultative platform with participation of representatives of local communities and government technical services with protected areas services
• Updated list and qualitative information on endemic fish species, as well as of macro invertebrates and birds in the areas