Cocoa Value Chain Dynamics and Agroforestry Pathways in Kumba, Cameroon: Balancing Livelihoods and Forest Conservation
Louis Njie Ndumbe1*, Efou Fotindong Fabrice2, and Ettagbor Hans Enukwa3
1 – Department of Forestry and Wildlife, Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine,
University of Buea, Cameroon.
2 – Department of Agriculture, Higher Technical Teachers Training College, Kumba,
University of Buea, Cameroon.
3 – Department of Civil Engineering and Forestry Techniques, Higher Technical Teachers Training College, Bambili, University of Bamenda, Cameroon.
*Corresponding author
To Cite: Ndumbe et al. (2026), Cocoa Value Chain Dynamics and Agroforestry Pathways in Kumba, Cameroon: Balancing Livelihoods and Forest Conservation. Journal of Tertiary and Industrial Sciences, JTIS, 6(1), 111–132. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18685906
Submission Date: 15/11/2025 Acceptance Date: 20/01/2026
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.