Barriers to Effective Water Resource Management in Foumbot, Cameroon: Infrastructure, Policy, and Community Engagement

초록

Water challenges such as water scarcity and access to potable water are major global issues faced in Foumbot due to limited community engagement, policy gaps, and rapid population growth. This study evaluates the water supply and management in the Foumbot municipality, analyzing the difficulties encountered by stakeholders. Data were obtained through questionnaires, observations, discussions, and field interviews, with secondary data from the internet, Camwater, and Foumbot council. Results show that 36% of residents rely on streams due to Camwater’s irregular supply, leading to water scarcity and waterborne diseases. A chi-square test confirms uneven water distribution. Findings suggest that the current distribution and storage infrastructure is inadequate to accommodate the expanding population. Governance and policy issues exacerbate water shortages, and community involvement in water management remains minimal. Changes in land use and improper waste management are contributing to catchment degradation, which in turn is deteriorating water quality. This study proposes community-centered strategies and integrated approaches, including low-cost sanitation initiatives, catchment rehabilitation, infrastructure development, and participatory governance, to enhance the resilience of the water supply system, ensure sustainable management, and increase water availability in Foumbot. © 2026 The Korean Society of Engineering Geology.

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