Evaluation of the value chain and market dynamics of African star apple (Chrysophyllum albidumG. Don) in Fiditi, Oyo State, Nigeria
2025
Arabomen, Oghenekevwe Joy | Oladeji, Kehinde Paul | Oladeji, Taiwo Victor | Babalola, Folaranmi Dapo
This study focused on the value chain and marketing dynamics of Chrysophyllum albidum (African star apple) in Fiditi, Afijio Local Government Area of Oyo State, Nigeria. Data were obtained with the aid of semi-structured questionnaires, which were distributed to traders, tree climbers, fruit gatherers, basket binders, and motorcyclists involved in the fruit value chain. These were complemented withface-to-face interviews to provide deeper insight into the trade. A total of 120 questionnaires were administered to purposively selected respondents actively participating in the collection, transportation and trade of the fruit. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics and gross margin analysis. The results revealed that 36% of the traders sold between 50 - 100 baskets per month, while 43% sourced their fruits only from farmlands. The average weight of a basket was 10.90 kg, sold at 1₦5 000, with an average cost of ₦2 890 per basket. The gross margin per basket was ₦2 110, representing a 43% profitability rate. Each trader employed six to seven workers depending on the volume and size of the fruit trees. Women dominated the marketing activities, while men were mainly involved in harvesting and logistics. Key constraints identified included high transportation costs, missing goods, and market competition from other producing states. It is concluded that the trade of C. albidum is profitable and supports rural livelihoods, but improvements in transport systems and further research to explore the potential of C. albidum for local and export markets are needed to enhance sustainability and income generation.
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