The Far North region of Cameroon, characterized by its harsh climatic conditions and recurring inter-communal conflicts, faces significant challenges primarily centered around the competition for water and land resources. This article explores the root causes, impacts, and potential solutions for the ongoing conflicts between the Choa Arab herders and the Musgum fisherfolk, exacerbated by climate change and poor governance.

Root Causes of the Conflict

The primary drivers of conflict in Cameroon’s Far North are climate change-induced erratic rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts, and devastating floods. These environmental stresses have intensified competition for scarce water resources and arable land, leading to food scarcity and aggravating longstanding ethnic tensions between the Choa Arabs and Musgum communities.

The Choa Arabs, predominantly cattle herders, and the Musgum, primarily fishers and farmers, have clashed over water management from the Logone River. The Musgum’s practice of digging basins to retain water for fishing and irrigation has been seen as a threat to the Choa Arabs’ cattle, leading to accusations of monopolizing resources with alleged support from local administrators. This disagreement has evolved into broader ethnic feuds fueled by allegations of bias and corruption in resource management.

Escalation and Humanitarian Impact

In 2021, the conflict over the Logone River’s waters escalated, leading to violent clashes that displaced approximately 100,000 people. The violence included attacks on villages, sexual violence, and arson, creating a humanitarian crisis that extended into neighboring Chad. Despite government intervention and the establishment of crisis committees, clashes resumed in 2023, highlighting the persistent risk of inter-communal violence.

The conflict has severely impacted the local population, forcing many residents to flee to displacement camps where their needs remain largely unmet. The ongoing insecurity and lack of adequate infrastructure have hindered efforts to encourage the return of displaced individuals, further disrupting the region’s social fabric and increasing vulnerabilities, especially for young girls at risk of sexual violence and trafficking.

The Role of Boko Haram and Jihadist Groups

The presence of Boko Haram and the Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) has further complicated the situation. These jihadist groups exploit the socio-economic hardships of the region, recruiting local youths and exacerbating the security situation. Jihadist raids have rendered many areas unsafe for farming, fishing, and herding, pushing residents into deeper competition over limited resources.

In response, the Cameroonian government launched a reconstruction program aimed at rebuilding infrastructure and improving livelihoods. However, progress has been slow due to administrative delays and the challenging security environment. The success of this program is crucial for stabilizing the region and addressing the root causes of conflict.

Recommendations for Peace and Stability

To prevent a recurrence of violence and ensure long-term peace, the Cameroonian government must address the underlying causes of the conflict. Key recommendations include:

Enhancing Early Warning Systems: Expanding early warning committees to monitor and report tensions in all affected villages, ensuring inclusivity by involving representatives from all ethnic groups, as well as women and youth leaders.

Improving Resource Management: Implementing inclusive water and land management policies that involve local communities in decision-making processes. Updating legal frameworks, such as the Water Code, to clearly define priorities and regulations for resource use.

Strengthening Justice and Accountability: Building trust in the justice system by conducting thorough investigations into past and present violence and ensuring fair trials for perpetrators. Establishing a victims' compensation fund to help those affected rebuild their lives.

Addressing Climate Adaptation: Working with international partners to enhance the region’s resilience to climate change by developing adaptive strategies for managing water and land resources, improving agricultural practices, and constructing infrastructure to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events.

Supporting Humanitarian Efforts: Ensuring continued support from humanitarian organizations to meet the immediate needs of displaced individuals, facilitating the provision of aid, and ensuring safe and dignified living conditions in displacement camps.

Promoting Economic Development: Investing in economic development initiatives that create sustainable livelihoods, including vocational training, microfinance programs, and infrastructure projects that boost local economies.

The Far North of Cameroon is grappling with a multi-layered crisis that requires a comprehensive and sustained response. Addressing the root causes of conflict involves resolving immediate disputes over water and land and tackling broader issues of governance, justice, and economic development. Enhancing the region’s resilience to climate change is essential, as unpredictable weather patterns exacerbate resource scarcity. International support will be vital in implementing these measures.

A multifaceted approach that addresses immediate humanitarian needs, strengthens governance and justice systems, and enhances climate resilience is essential for breaking the cycle of violence and building a more peaceful and prosperous future for all the region’s inhabitants. By taking decisive and inclusive actions now, Cameroon can pave the way for lasting peace and development in its Far North.