Back to: Environmental Biology 300 Level
Welcome to class!
Hello, brilliant scholar! Let’s begin with a simple thought: have you ever seen a group of farmers, hunters, or fishermen in your village working together to protect a river, forest, or farmland? That’s what we call Community-Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM). It’s one of the most effective ways to ensure that the people who live closest to the land take care of it—because it is their life, heritage, and future.
Community-Based Natural Resource Management
What is Community-Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM)?
CBNRM is a system where local communities actively participate in managing and benefiting from the natural resources around them—such as forests, rivers, wildlife, farmland, and fisheries. Instead of government officials or outsiders making all the decisions, communities are empowered to protect and use their resources sustainably.
This approach is especially important in African societies where people have lived off the land for generations, passing down knowledge through culture and tradition.
Key Principles of CBNRM
Participation – Local people are involved in decision-making about their resources.
Ownership – Communities take responsibility and feel a sense of pride in the land and its care.
Benefit-sharing – The economic or social benefits from managing resources (e.g. eco-tourism, fish farming) are shared within the community.
Sustainability – Resources are used in a way that ensures they are available for future generations.
Equity – Women, youth, and marginalised groups are included in resource governance.
Why CBNRM Matters in Nigeria and Africa
In many Nigerian communities—from the mangrove swamps of the Niger Delta to the savannahs of the North—people rely directly on land and water for farming, fishing, hunting, and herding. When they are left out of decision-making, resources are often misused or destroyed.
For example, in parts of Cross River State, community forest management has helped reduce illegal logging and protect endangered wildlife. In Kebbi State, local fishing cooperatives work together to regulate fishing seasons to avoid overfishing.
Benefits of Community-Based Resource Management
Conservation – Natural ecosystems are better protected by people who use and understand them.
Livelihood support – Communities earn income from responsible tourism, farming, and harvesting.
Conflict reduction – Local decision-making reduces land-use conflicts between herders, farmers, and other groups.
Cultural preservation – Indigenous knowledge and traditions are respected and passed down.
Improved governance – Communities gain leadership skills and work better with government and NGOs.
Challenges of CBNRM
Lack of clear land rights or ownership laws
Conflict between traditional and formal authorities
Poor funding and lack of training
Exploitation by outsiders or companies
Climate change reducing the availability of resources
Even with these issues, many Nigerian and African communities are proving that local stewardship works when people are trusted and supported.
Summary
- CBNRM is a strategy where local communities manage and benefit from their natural resources.
- It is based on participation, ownership, equity, benefit-sharing, and sustainability.
- Nigerian communities in places like Cross River and Kebbi are examples of successful CBNRM.
- The benefits include conservation, income generation, conflict reduction, and cultural preservation.
- Challenges include unclear land rights, weak funding, and external pressures.
Evaluation
- What is Community-Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM)?
- List three principles of CBNRM.
- Mention two benefits of CBNRM to Nigerian communities.
- Identify two challenges facing CBNRM.
- Give one example of CBNRM in Nigeria and explain its success.
Excellent work today! You’re learning how everyday people—just like those in your community—can become powerful protectors of nature. This knowledge empowers you to become a leader in conservation and sustainable development. Keep shining—Afrilearn is herehere to guide you every step of the way!