Assessment of Processors and Marketers of Sheabutter (<i>Vitellaria paradoxa</i> C. F. Gaertn.) in Zuru Local Government Area, Kebbi State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined the processing and marketing of Shea butter in Zuru Local Government Area of Kebbi State, Nigeria to identify the  socioeconomic characteristics of Shea butter processors and marketers, the average cost and return of Shea butter processors and marketers and the determinant variables of profitability among the Shea butter processors. The study covered five District Areas of Dabai, Manga, Rafin Zuru, Rikoto and Senchi. Four villages from each of the districts were purposively  selected. Four respondents were randomly selected from each of the villages giving a total sample size of 80 respondents while structured questionnaires were administered and retrieved. The data collected were analysed using simple descriptive statistics, profitability and multiple regression analysis. The results of the study indicated that, average age of Shea butter processors and marketers was 45years with 71.2% married. Majority of the respondents (68.8%) had a family size of 1-10 members, while 43.7% of Shea butter processors and marketers had attained at least one form of formal education or the other. About 46.3% of Shea butter processors made ₦1 – ₦300 profit per week. The total profit made by the processors and marketers of Shea butter were ₦33,150.00 and ₦41,130.00 respectively, while the average profit made were ₦414.38 and ₦514.13 per week. Rate of return in Shea butter business is 30.19. The benefit cost ratio is 1.30, indicating that revenue from the business is able to cover the total cost. The regression co-efficient with respect to the variables used had a very low co-efficient of multiple determination R² (0.243). The major problems of Shea butter processors in the study area include long time processing, inadequate capital and transportation cost. Since Shea butter business is profitable; women in the rural areas should therefore be encouraged by the Local, State and Federal Government to enhance their enterprise.

Key Words: Shea butter, Non-timber Forest Products, Processors, Marketing