Diy-Gid-Biy Cultural Landscape of the Mandara Mountains

Terracing as an Old-Style Scheme of Soil Water Preservation in Djingliya-Mandara Mountains- Cameroon

Terracing emerges as a critical traditional practice for soil water preservation and landscape restoration in the Djingliya-Mandara Mountains, Cameroon. This study reveals that terraces effectively mitigate soil degradation caused by overuse and erosion, while also promoting sustainable farming through integrated techniques such as agroforestry, crop rotation, and the cultivation of infiltration-enhancing plants. Field observations, interviews, and questionnaires from 100 individuals across five villages demonstrate that these local strategies not only restore degraded land but also bolster food security amid high population densities and environmental pressures. The findings underscore the potential of traditional soil conservation methods in combating socio-political challenges and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices.