Socioeconomics of the Production and Marketing of Haricot Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in the Western Highlands of Cameroon

Abstract

There has been an increase in the demand for Haricot beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in Cameroon, most especially from buyers of neighbouring countries and institutions that feed their members. This indicates the existence of opportunities for farmers to exploit the market system and effectively participate in the supply chain within and across national borders. However, farmers don’t make use of this opportunity resulting from multiple constraints ranging from low production levels, low income and inconsistency in market participation to high transaction cost. It is thus relevant to identify and address the constraints facing these farmers in a bid to improve production and market participation. This analyzes the factors influencing farmer’s participation in the production and marketing of haricot beans in the Western Highlands of Cameroon.  Data was collected from 200 farmers in 24 villages in the Western Highlands of Cameroon and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques. Findings indicate that the production and marketing of beans was dominated by older and married farmers with low educational background who depend on these for their livelihood. In addition, the farming system practiced, production season, seed type planted and access to production resources significantly influence the quantities produced and marketed. To enhance haricot beans production and marketing, the study opines that development interventions lay emphasis on infrastructural and technology improvement especially with regards to the provision and use of improved farm inputs.

Keywords: Haricot beans, production, marketing, Western Highlands, Cameroon