Cassava use in southern Benin: Importance and perception of actors involved in the value chain

Abstract

In Benin, many families resort not only to consumption but also to the therapeutic use of cassava (Manihot esculenta). The study assessed the impact of socio-economic factors on the use of cassava, and the perception of the actors involved in the value chain in Benin. Four areas of high production and processing, with 516 producers and processors of cassava roots were surveyed. The results reveal that producers are mostly men (83.30%) over 40 years of age (53%) with a primary education (73%); while processors are mostly women (83%) over 40 years of age (65%) and uneducated (55%). BEN, RB, and Finton are the most produced varieties. Post-harvest losses are much higher in Kétou than Aplahoué and Zogbodomè. The processors carry out at least two processes per month (83%) with a quantity of less than 500 kg (93%), and an annual income of less than 150,000 African Financial Community franc (CFAF). Cassava leaves are used to treat anaemia in children, haemorrhage and headaches, while the roots are employed to treat erectile dysfunction and malaria. Cuttings are used against accidents. Cassava is important in Benin because of its nutritional, financial and therapeutic values.