Analysis of Marketing Channels of Plum (Dacryodes edulis) from the Njombe-Penja Production Basin

Fon Dorothy E, and Mbondji Ntombe P.B.

 

Full Length Research Paper  I Published December, 2018

 

Journal of Agricultural Science and Food Technology  Vol. 4 (9), pp.173-181.

 

ABSTRACT

This study on the analysis of plum (Dacryodes edulis) marketing channels in the Njombe-Penja production basin is out to inform traders on channels that can ensure the faster flow of plum from producers to consumers while ensuring higher gross margins. Data were collected using questionnaires administered to 70 traders; including 31 from the markets of Njombe-Penja, 22 from the Douala markets and 17 from the Yaoundé city markets. Seven categories of traders were identified: producers, wholesalers, collectors, multiple purposes agents, conveyors, exporters, and retailers. Results show that the retail sector is dominated by women (61.1%); while all men are in wholesale trade; a majority of them (81.5%) are with multiple purposes (81.5%). Plum pass through the wholesale and retail markets in moving from producers to consumers. Eight marketing channels were identified; the shortest constitutes of an intermediary and the longest of five intermediaries. Prices are set at the selling points and payment can be made either in cash or on credit. In abundance period, traders who sell in bulk have a higher gross margin with large size fruits; while in retail sales, the margin is higher with small fruits. The profit margins for export to France are more important than to the neighboring countries of Cameroon. Results also show that the marketing of plum face four major problems; the perishable nature of the fruits, lack of capital, difficult access to certain production areas, and the unavailability of vehicles. Based on these findings; farm tracks should be improved upon by the state to facilitate the flow of plum to urban markets.

Key Words: African pear, production basin, marketing channel, Njombe-Penja, market.

 

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