Climate Variability Manifestations in the Bakassi Coastal Zone of Cameroon

Abstract

Climate variability has continued to generate important environmental consequences in coastal environments and island communities. This study examined the manifestations of climate variability in the island communities of the Bakassi Peninsula of Cameroon. A quantitative research approach was adopted using climatic data for the period 1990–2024. The analysis focused on rainfall, temperature, relative humidity and sea surface temperature, using descriptive statistics, coefficient of variation and regression analysis to assess short- and long-term trends. The results show that the Bakassi coastal region has experienced measurable variations in major climatic parameters over the study period. Rainfall increased by approximately 100 mm over the last three decades, while temperature increased by about 0.6 °C. Relative humidity and sea surface temperature also fluctuated by about 10% annually. Regression results indicated statistically significant variations in the selected climatic variables, with p-values below 0.02. These climatic changes are associated with increased exposure to flooding, storm surges, coastal inundation, ecosystem degradation and livelihood vulnerability, particularly among communities dependent on fishing and agriculture. The findings indicate that the Bakassi coastal environment is increasingly vulnerable to climate variability and related hazards. The study therefore emphasises the need for context-specific adaptation strategies, including mangrove conservation, disaster-risk reduction and sustainable coastal management, to strengthen resilience in the Bakassi coastal zone.