Date of Award
Spring 2023
Document Type
Dissertation Restricted
Degree Name
Doctor of Public Administration (DPA)
Department
Public Policy and Administration
Committee Chairperson
Kristen B. Crossney, PhD
Committee Member
Allison H. Turner, PhD
Committee Member
Peter Loedel, PhD
Abstract
The Baka people have little to no representation in the Cameroonian government, local government, or public service. The purpose of this study is to generate understanding as to how to mitigate the current marginalization of the Baka people of Cameroon. This research aims to explore and identify recent strategies that the government of Cameroon have implemented to develop and modernize these regions. The research sought to generate further understanding of the process of participatory results-based design, monitoring, evaluation, and implementation of empowering methods and then prescribes strategies that Cameroon can implement to build capacity within the Baka people of the Southern region of Cameroon.
This research involved semi-structured interviewing of both the government of Cameroon and the Baka people to facilitate an increased understanding what strategies have been undertaken, which strategies worked and did not work, and how consensus could be met through the integration of the Baka people’s institutional efforts. The results of the research were intended to help the Baka people and other marginalized indigenous people to be empowered in designing programs that will improve their standards of living and reduce poverty within their communities. This study may eventually help Cameroonian society at large to understand, accept, and appreciate the cultures of the Baka people. Findings from this study may help identify ways in which to reduce the stigmatization and marginalization of the Baka people. Some identified solutions include improving Baka representation in government, establishing income-generating initiatives, making education affordable, and promoting agricultural activities.
Recommended Citation
ABORA, TIMOTHY, "How can the Baka people of the Southern Region of Cameroon be empowered to participate in the design, monitoring, evaluation, and implementation of programs to reduce poverty in their community?" (2023). West Chester University Doctoral Projects. 220.
https://digitalcommons.wcupa.edu/all_doctoral/220