Standing up to the limits and challenges of participatory methods and approaches in Cameroon

Participatory methods and approaches are being adopted by many conservation-development organizations within the Central African sub-region. This paper details some of the limitations and challenges of participatory methods in light of the authors ten years of experience of working for agricultural and conservation organizations in Cameroon. One difficulty encountered is whether participatory processes actually revealed genuine community problems. Often, the true priorities of the community would lie beyond the scope and mandate of one development organization. Another major impediment is the minimal participation of women, whom, even when present at PRA sessions, are limited in participating due to social conventions. In conclusion, the author urges caution in the use of participatory methods and approaches.