The role of indigenous leafy vegetables on daily diet and rural and urban economy of niger

Indigenous Leafy Vegetables (ILVs) are produced, harvested and consumed in all the Sudano Sahelian countries of Africa. However, research and development of the ILVs sector has been neglected until very recently. A survey of ILVs has been carried out to assess the importance of ILVs in both the diets and the economy of the rural sector of Niger and to identify constraints and challenges leading to identification of research priorities. The survey was carried out in three regions (Maradi, Dosso and Tillabery) representing the three major agro-climatic zones of Niger. Separate interviews were carried out with consumers, producers and sellers. Twenty two plant species used as leafy vegetables were identified. The five most important ILVs in Niger are: Moringa oleifera, Corchorus spp., Senna obtusifolia, Hibiscus sabdariffa, and Adansonia digitata. Parameters contributing to the nutritional value of these five species were determined. ILVs are consumed by majority of the rural households on a daily basis throughout the year. Vulnerable households consume three times more ILVs than the very vulnerable households. ILVs are sold in village and city markets and are exported to neighboring countries. In Maradi and Dosso farmers involved in ILVs production obtain 20-30% of their annual income from the sales of ILVs. In Tillabery this value is higher than 50%. The findings of the study have led to the formulation priorities for research on ILVs in Niger.