Year 2026, Volume 11, Issue 1
| Year : | 2026 |
| Volume : | 11 |
| Issue : | 1 |
| Authors : | Abdel Kader NAINO JIKA |
| Title : | WOMEN-LED AGRO-TRANSFORMATION IN NIGER: AN INVENTORY OF TRADITIONAL PRODUCTS PRESENTED AT SAHEL-NIGER 2025 |
| Abstract : | This study documents and analyzes the diversity and perceived economic value of traditional plant-based products processed by women in Niger. Data were collected during the 2025 edition of SAHEL-NIGER, the national agricultural fair, covering 135 unique products reported by 164 processors, of whom 98.4% were women. The dataset was cleaned and standardized to examine species use, transformation techniques, regional distribution, and self-assessed product value. A total of 42 plant species were recorded, with pearl millet, sesame, moringa, and sorghum being the most commonly used. Shannon diversity indices highlighted Maradi (H′ = 2.81), Niamey (H′ = 2.25), and Tillabéri (H′ = 2.24) as diversity hotspots. Processing techniques were dominated by grinding, cooking, and drying. Logistic regression revealed that grinding-based products were significantly more likely to be perceived as high-value (OR = 2.23; p = 0.0058), while neither species nor gender showed a significant effect. The dataset also revealed substantial regional disparities and equipment gaps, particularly in Tahoua. These results suggest that basic processing technologies (not just crop choice) are key to rural value creation. Based on this evidence, we recommend investment in decentralized equipment (e.g., grinders, dryers), participatory breeding programs focused on sesame and moringa traits, and better integration of women’s knowledge into innovation systems. Agro-transformation, when rooted in biodiversity and supported by technology, can serve as a powerful pathway for women’s economic empowerment in dryland West Africa. |
| Keywords : | rural innovation, traditional foods, Neglected and Underutilized Species, Niger |
ISSN 2490-3434 (Printed)
ISSN 2490-3442 (Online)
ISSN 2490-3442 (Online)
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