Socioeconomic Influences on Great Ape Conservation in the Lebialem Highlands, Cameroon

Background and Objective: The success of wildlife conservation programmes for great apes is largely shaped by how local communities perceive these animals and their readiness to support conservation efforts. This study examines how the knowledge, views, and opinions of local people relate to the protection of chimpanzees and gorillas in the Lebialem Highlands of Southwest Cameroon, and assesses how household socio-demographic characteristics influence these perceptions. Materials and Methods: A mixed-method approach was used, combining household surveys (n = 378) and more than 50 focus group discussions across 32 villages within three conservation zones. In villages with fewer than 25 households, full-coverage surveys were conducted; in larger villages, structured sampling and group discussions were applied. To assess species recognition, respondents were shown laminated photographs of chimpanzees, gorillas, and local monkey species, to confirm they could distinguish great apes from other primates. Questions were designed to evaluate knowledge of species, perceived threats, attitudes, and behaviours during encounters. Data were analysed using SPSS and Pearson Chi-square tests to assess relationships between socio-demographic variables and conservation perceptions (p≤0.05). Results: Age did not significantly affect respondents’ ability to recognise great apes (χ² = 66.077, P = 0.474), but older respondents demonstrated significantly greater knowledge of threats to great apes (χ² = 277.718, p<0.001) and were more likely to discuss conservation with their children (χ² = 81.482, p<0.001). Educational level significantly influenced perceived importance of great apes (χ² = 156.466, p<0.001). Annual income was significantly linked to reported great ape meat consumption, with lower-income households more likely to consume bushmeat (χ² = 46.286, p<0.001). Conclusion: Socio-demographic factors, particularly age, income, and education, are significant predictors of conservation-relevant knowledge and attitudes. Effective conservation in the Lebialem Highlands requires targeted education programmes that engage older community members, livelihood diversification to reduce bushmeat dependence among low-income households, and direct great ape conservation.