Abstract
This present study analyses gender and governance in the rice and vegetable-based value chain systems in 3 lowlands of southern Benin and 2 lowlands in Southern Mali. A sample of 243 farmers, 1 modern processing unit, 18 traditional processors, 76 traders and 8 national institutions were interviewed in Benin and Mali. Descriptive statistics and Harvard analytical framework were used for the analysis of governance and gender respectively in the value chains. The majority of farmers have access to the use of land. Women produce up to 80% of basic foods for household consumption and sale. However they don’t have the control of these resources (capital and land). Decision making in relation to resources (land, water labor, credit) is under the control of men and natives. The governance analysis showed that the products of lowlands are not subject to quality control, with no public inspection for health and product quality. There is no input subsidy for actors in both countries. There are informal contracts between actors of the rice based systems in Mali and Benin. The markets are open for all the products and credit systems do exist. Some structures are involved in upstream and downstream chain components for training in various activities.
Highlights
In Sub-Saharan Africa, lowlands valleys are valuable resources for increasing production and incomes of farmers and other actors
Understanding value chain governance and how it is organized and coordinated can enhance the profitability at all segments of the value chains [1]
The overall objective of this study is to analyze the performance of lowland value chain systems through gender and governance
Summary
In Sub-Saharan Africa, lowlands valleys are valuable resources for increasing production and incomes of farmers and other actors. The development of lowlands, through the intensification of rice and vegetable crops systems will increase productivity and incomes. Rice and vegetable crops production can be attractive value chain development opportunities for smallholder producers. The value chain analysis can show linkages among production, transportation, processing and marketing of agricultural products. Understanding value chain governance and how it is organized and coordinated can enhance the profitability at all segments of the value chains [1]. Improving the coordination of the different actors in the chain reduces transaction costs, helps to ensure the quality and safety of products, and stimulates the development of marketing strategies [2]
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