Profitability of Cultivation and Marketing Strategies for 'Violet de Galmi' Onions in Niger's Ader Doutchi Maggia Valley

Abstract

The onion, Violet de Galmi, is mainly grown for export in the Ader Doutchi Maggia valley on poorly developed, sub-arid brown soils. It is produced using a combination of different cultivation systems and sales methods to maximize income. This study aims to analyze the performance indicators of the strategies adopted by Violet de Galmi onion producers. The methodology involved a literature review, defining the study area, and sampling the stakeholders to be interviewed. Questionnaires and interview guides were developed using KoboCollect across production-marketing- consumption sectors. Data was collected by surveying 155 value chain actors (82 producers, 24 traders, 49 consumers) plus two focus groups. The results show that most producers are men from the Hausa ethnic group. They cultivate small areas ranging from 0.25 to 6 hectare, with average yields of 16,69 for the early system and 15.41 for the late system. The results also show two cultivation systems closely linked to either immediate sales at the field or deferred sales from storage facilities. Three successful strategies are practiced: immediate sales, deferred sales, and a mixed sales strategy. Deferred sales yields highest added value and lowest break-even, outperforming immediate/mixed strategies. This findings guide agroecological shifts for Sahelian smallholders. Findings guide agroecological shifts for Sahelian smallholders.