Guibourtia tessmannii is a tree species that is renowned in Cameroon for its cultural, economic and medicinal value. Its popularity has resulted in its over-exploitation nationally.  According to research specialists of plant surveys, there are no updated data on the exact status and exploitation of Guibourtia tessmannii in the country. A database system with information on the distribution, uses of the wood and the actors involved would be of great importance for the management, conservation and protection of this species. Local farmers (n=256) and timber workers (n=67) were interviewed on the uses of G. tessmannii, logging zones, people involved in logging, seedling production, planting techniques, suggestions for protection and conservation of the tree species in three subdivisions of Lolodorf, Meyomessi and Djoum.  Direct observations were also carried out on the number of grown G. tessmannii trees in natural forests, the number of G. tessmannii trees in nurseries, and the number of G. tessmannii logs in wood parks. In natural forests and plantations, the data recorded included diameter-at-breast-height and tree height. The collected data were entered into a Microsoft Access database and the statistical package, IBM SPSS version 20, was used to compare anthropometric measurements among different localities. The study found that G. tessmannii is a heavily used tree species and its conservation status can be described as near threatened (NT). Seven (2.7%) grown G. tessmannii trees were identified in natural forests, 47 trees of 28.5 cm diameter and 8.7 m mean height occurred in plantations of three farmers; while about 17 m³ of wood were recorded at twelve wood parks.

The database on G. tessmannii management and protection is at an early stage of development. Information continues to be collected weekly from woodworkers and recorded in the Access database. Evaluation of the species’ distribution and status is just beginning in southern Cameroon and will eventually cover all forest zones of Cameroon. The database provides names and map coordinates of localities where G. tessmannii is still occurring, information on how the wood is transported after logging, and the participation of local farmers in the management and conservation of the species. Information in the database will allow adult trees to be protected in areas where they are still occurring.  The national survey will identify and record all G. tessmannii, and will sensitize people on the status of this tree species.  There is also a need to  involve other stakeholders in the conservation and protection of this valuable species.