Influence of socio-demographic factors on the production system of Kersting’s groundnut in Benin

Abstract

Socio-demographic factors are often responsible for the persistent neglect of orphan crops such as Kersting’s groundnut (Macrotyloma geocarpum) in sub-Saharan Africa.The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of socio-demographic factors on production of Kersting’s groundnut (KG), as a basis for informing policy and development efforts in Benin. Data were collected from 305 randomly selected respondents from three major KG growing areas of Benin (Zou, Collines and Plateau). Descriptive statistics, analysis of variance, ordered logit models and Kendall’s coefficient of concordance were used to analyse data, rank and prioritise production constraints across socio-demographic clusters. Factors such as land tenure, farm size, farming experience, education level, age and location had significant positive influence on cultivated KG plot size. Similarly, gender, education level and membership to cooperative groups had positive effects on farmer-reported yield. Furthermore, location in the department of Zou had a negative effect on reported yield. Production activities (sowing and harvesting) were significantly influenced by gender and education level. The most significant constraints were damage due to transhumance, lack of quality seed, changing rainfall patterns, production complexity and poor access to credit and land. Strategic actions for boosting KG productivity should include use of improved varieties, sustainable seed system, appropriate crop management practices, and improved access to credit.