Cameroon is in Africa’s top five countries for biodiversity yet is facing a devastating decline in species due to habitat loss, poaching, and illegal wildlife trade (IWT). The consequences of this decline go beyond ecological concerns, as they also impact the country's economy, socio-cultural fabric, and wider conservation efforts. Analysis of Wildlife Court Cases in Cameroon, January 2010 – December 2022 identifies weak levels of collaboration, poor record-keeping, and misinterpretations of the 1994 Wildlife Law that create legal loopholes. It also uncovered that 24% of cases had the alarming hallmarks of influence peddling and corruption within the legal process, including non-arrests of suspects, unreported cases, unnecessary delays, deliberate errors, and low court penalties.
[2]