Gum arabic (Acacia senegal (L.) Willd.) production and marketing practices in some states of north-western Nigeria

Abstract

A base-line study was conducted to assess farmers’ practices on gum Arabic production in North Western states of Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara. A complete enumeration of gum Arabic farmers was carried out. Descriptive statistics using frequencies and percentages were used to analyse the data collected. Twenty one farms, equivalent to 577ha, of gum Arabic and other gum producing species were found across the three states. About 81% of the farmers purchased their planting stock. Establishment operations including spacing, pruning, weeding, irrigation and fertilizer application were carried out by 100%, 71.4%, 47.6% and 19% farmers, respectively. Majority (66.7%) of the farmers collect the gum from the natural exudates and 80.9% of them sell at the local market and at an average value of N850/kg for Acacia senegal. Majority of the farmers (85.7%) indicated low yield of gum as the most serious problem of gum Arabic production. Provision of certified planting materials, extension services and efficient post harvest operations could enhance gum Arabic production and marketing in the area.