Analysis of the Supply Chain for Crop Residues Used in Animal Feed in the City of Niamey

Abstract

Aims: This study analyses the problem of supplying the city of Niamey with crop residues used as animal feed. Study Design:  The study was conducted by researchers from the National Institute of Agronomic Research of Niger, the Livestock Breeding Center, the Abdou Moumouni University of Niamey and Agadez University. A survey was carried out with 597 transporters entering the city of Niamey. Methodology: The study involved spending one week, during the cool dry season, the hot dry season, and the rainy season, at six police checkpoints on the main entry routes to the city of Niamey. Results: Crop residues constituted a significant inflow from production areas, primarily villages in the surrounding communes, to the city of Niamey, mainly during the cool dry season. Crop haulms (cowpea: 72%; peanut: 10%) represent the largest proportion of crop residues transported into the city of Niamey. The most commonly used means of transport are donkey and ox-drawn carts (over 60%), and this is true throughout all seasons: 72.20% in the hot dry season, 62.40% in the cool dry season, and 42.90% in the rainy season. Cars are used moderately for supplying the city of Niamey (nearly 25%). The largest loads weigh 373.49 ± 69.66 kg for carts, 2000 ± 320 kg for cars, and 18.66 ± 7.70 kg for bicycles and motorcycles. Conclusion: The analysis of the system reveals a supply chain that remains informal and rudimentary, with more than 130 tons being transported to the city of Niamey per week.