Introduction

A project to improve the livestock production system and livelihoods as well as curb the steady decline of the natural environment has been initiated in Tugi village in the North-West Region of Cameroon. The project code-named Tugi Livestock Silvopastoral Project (TUSIP) is a World Bank-Supported Initiative conceived by Tugians under the leadership of Dr. Jonathan Ndaa Agwe and Professor Ajaga Nji with full backing and support of thelocal population and His Royal Highness Wilson Monoh Mbakwa IV, Fon of Tugi Village.

This bottom-up approach to agriculture and rural development in the Gutah Hills was conceived against the backdrop of the uncontrolled traditional livestock production system prevalent in the region which has negative effects on livelihoods, human health and the natural environment. Securing farmers food security and sustaining the livelihoods of the poor in the area as well as strengthening the capacity of traditional agricultural production systems to provide sustained livelihoods under environment-friendly production techniques depends on the successful harnessing of available local resources, indigenous knowledge systems, science, technology and innovation.