Organization of baobab leaf powder market in the sudano-guinean zone of Benin: Case of the municipality of Dassa-Zoumè

The nutritional value of baobab leaf powder and its contribution as a source of income to households in Benin call for the need of effective marketing channels. This paper aimed to investigate the market of baobab leaf powder at Dassa-Zoumè by characterizing the market channel and determining consumers’ perception. Data were collected from 11 collectors, 46 processors, 72 retailers and 187 consumers using a snowball sample through individual interviews. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the different actors while demand, supply and attainment index were used to analyse the consumers’ preference. The results show that Idaatcha and Mahi ethnic groups are involved in baobab leaf chain from the collection to consumption while Peulh ethnic group are just consumers. Dendi ethnic group are retailers. The results obtained indicated that baobab leaf chain actors are grouped into three main categories: retailers, drivers and collectors, processors and consumers. Processors supply leaf powder by direct selling transaction to consumers and retailers. Leaf processing activity is favorable for all the actors involved in the value chain during shortage season. Consumers’ preference analysis revealed that consumers are generally satisfied and their expectations are met. Baobab leaf powder market is still underdeveloped and deserves attention for an effective and sustainable development of its value chain. Keywords: Baobab leaf chain, marketing channel, consumers’ preference, snowball sample, attainment index.