Agrarian systems dynamics of shea trees (Vitellaria paradoxa Gaertn) parklands in Northern Benin

Abstract

Vitellaria paradoxa represents an essential element of the agroforestry system for maintaining ecology durability in Sub-Saharan region Africa. The present study aimed at bringing out elements of changes and modification or mutation that have occurred in the management of shea parklands between 1960 and 2012 in northern Benin. The method of analysis-diagnosis of agrarian systems developed by the Unity of Formation and Research (UFR) of the Compared Agriculture and Agricultural Development was used. Based on a land diagnosis of two agricultural districts characterized by homogenous agro-ecologic and socioeconomic conditions, this method enabled to mark and to explain the diversity system of V. paradoxa, and to analyze the functioning and changes occurred between 1960 and 2012. The diagnosis revealed that the proliferation of mistletoe and trunk borers on shea trees, and the reduction of half of V. paradoxa stands and their density were the main changes observed in the villages. Furthermore, changes have occurred at the beginning and the end of farming activities, their period, the introduction of new crops and the recovered option of intensification. This study shows that there are changes in the management system of shea parklands in Benin.

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Keywords: Dynamics, agrarian systems, shea parklands, diagnostic analysis, Benin