An Evaluation of the Role of Traditional Leaders in Water Resource Management in Mambu- Bafut, Cameroon.

Abstract

The study evaluates the role of traditional leaders in water resource management in Mambu-Bafut, Cameroon, employing a descriptive, exploratory approach with 50 purposively selected respondents. Data was gathered through structured questionnaires and observations, and analysed using descriptive statistics. Key findings indicate that most participants “agree” or “strongly agree” that traditional leaders have instituted fines on those who throw waste into water catchment areas (mean score of 4.50 and standard deviation of 0.614), increase financial awareness of water management (mean score of 4.42 and standard deviation of 0.499), water availability, quality, and cost should be raised (mean score of 3.94 and standard deviation of 1.202) and building, operating, and maintaining water infrastructure (mean score of 3.94 and standard deviation of 1.202). The study highlights the relevance of traditional leaders and institutions' governance in managing water resources in Manbu-Bafut to enhance sustainability.