Sweet Success: How the Mbororos of Muanenguba Traded Cattle for Bees - by Kang Boris, CAD

On the cold, misty and vast grazier hills of Cameroon's Muanenguba highlands, the indigenous Mbororos have thrived as nomadic cattle herders for generations. However, their reliance on a single livelihood exposed them to economic vulnerability. Community Action for Development (CAD) and WWF intervened, introducing bee farming and organic gardening as alternative income sources.

With training and guidance, the Mbororos now manage 64 beehives, harvesting 112 liters of natural honey in 2024 and generating XAF 225,000 in sales. They've even innovated by producing white honey using forest plants and locally sourced materials for hive construction.

CAD and WWF plan to further support the Mbororos in honey processing, marketing, and institutional capacity building. This conservation-friendly community exemplifies building economic resilience through climate-smart agricultural technologies like agroforestry and api-forestry.

Their transformation from cattle herders to successful beekeepers and gardeners showcases resilience, innovation, and a deep connection to their traditions and culture.