Domesticating baobab tree: a baseline study on trade and usage in Adaklu district and Ho municipality

Abstract

A baseline survey was undertaken in Ho and three communities in Adaklu District in the Volta Region of Ghana. The objective of the study was to assess the trade and usage of baobab along the value chain in order to determine the viability of domesticating the baobab tree in Ghana. A qualitative approach was adopted whereby focus group discussions and interviews were conducted with traders, buyers and consumers of baobab fruits in Adaklu District and Ho Municipality. Findings revealed that the only part of baobab being traded in was the fruit pulp in the study communities. Focus group discussants attested that there is underutilisation of baobab in their communities. They are however, aware of some nutritional and medicinal benefits of baobab. The low consumption of baobab is most likely influenced by culture. It was revealed that baobab trade is an all-women affair, well organised and has been going on for a long time. Traders come from different places to buy baobab fruit pulp from Ho market. The baobab trade is growing and has many opportunities along the value chain right from cultivation to utilisation. Baobab has the potential to create jobs, improve health and wellbeing and contribute to climate action.