Project Planning Strategies for Sustainable Agro-Pastoral Entrepreneurs in Rural Communities: A Case Study of Balikumbat Sub-Division, Cameroon

Abstract

Agro-pastoral enterprises play a vital role in sustaining rural livelihoods in Cameroon, particularly in regions like Ngoketunjia Division where agriculture and livestock are the backbone of the economy. However, these enterprises face numerous challenges, including limited access to formal planning tools, training, and institutional support. Most agro-pastoralists rely on informal planning strategies, which constrain productivity, resilience, and long-term sustainability. This study examines the project planning strategies employed by agro-pastoralists in Balikumbat Subdivision and assesses their effectiveness in promoting enterprise sustainability. A mixed-methods approach was used, involving structured questionnaires administered employed, involving the administration of structured questionnaires to 150 agro-pastoralists across five villages, complemented by focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 22.0, employing descriptive statistics to explore planning patterns and socioeconomic characteristics. Qualitative data were thematically analyzed to capture indigenous practices and contextual challenges. The findings reveal that only 35% of respondents utilized formal planning tools, with key challenges including limited training (62%), resource constraints (58%), and climate variability (47%). Despite these constraints, traditional strategies such as crop diversification and rotational grazing continue to enhance resilience. The study recommends integrating indigenous knowledge with modern planning tools and strengthening institutional support to foster sustainable rural agro-pastoral development.