Food Security from the Forest: The Case of the Commodification of Baobab Fruit (Adansonia digitata L.) in Boundou Region, Senegal

Abstract

Wild edible fruits from the forest have often been regarded as poverty food; however, there has been a notable shift in recent years as these wild edible fruits have gained increasing recognition for their significance in global food security, especially in agricultural societies such as Senegal. This paper contributes to the debate on how the forest plays a role in diets and nutrition security using the example of wild fruit (Baobab) found in the Boundou Region in Senegal. The livelihood strategies of people in this region have been subject to external influences, such as climate shock and restrictions enforced as the area became a protected area in 2009. These external influences have resulted in the loss of pasture use and the prohibition of hunting. Restriction of access to these previous commons (pasture, wildlife) diminishes the resilience of the local population. However, a new alternative of seasonal usage of wild fruit, specifically baobab, for commercial purposes has emerged as everybody in the community has unrestricted access to collecting these wild edible fruits within the protected area, which is uncommon in other protected areas. The commodification and commercialization of these wild fruits bring essential cash income to many households, thereby improving food security.

Implications of a Climate-Smart Approach to Food and Income Security for Urban Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review

“…Diversifying agricultural production coupled with other economic activities by urban farmers in the face of climate-related shocks could also be essential, for example, integrating underutilised crops, agro-processing, and farm-related merchandise. Owolodun and Merten [94] mention that commodification and commercialisation by farmers provide prospects for cash income, which could improve food security. Underutilised crops are, therefore, a climate-resilient option that is also cost-effective for mitigating the effects of climate change.…”

An ethnobotanical study of wild edible fruits in miombo woodlands of Tabora region in Western Tanzania

“…Wild fruits are the most widely known non-timber forest products (NTFPs) [ 16 ]. If well utilised, they can supplement diet, medicine, and material substance and are important sources of income essential for purchasing required household goods in rural settings [ 17 , 18 ]. However, ever-increasing demands for land resources to produce food and the privatisation of land altogether have resulted in the degradation of natural ecosystems due to deforestation [ 19 ].…”