Socio-economic analysis of the leather and skins value chain in Niger

Abstract

In Maradi, the exploitation of animal products provides income for a significant number of people. This study aims to determine the socio-economic characteristics of the direct activities of the leather and skins value chain. Primary data was collected from 113 stakeholders. The profitability of the activities was determined using the accounting method of cost and benefit calculations. The value chain employs exclusively men in its first three links. Intermediate consumption and fixed costs are low. Income regeneration varies greatly between and within links. The link that collects leather and skins generates the most income (8368 FCFA). The craft link proves to be more efficient with an economic profitability of 2.1. Income from the production, collection, and craft processing of leather and skins is above the national poverty line. However, only the collection and production of leather and skins contribute significantly to poverty reduction, with scores ranging from 2.7 to 9.7. The results of this study highlight the income-generating capacity of these activities.

Keywords: Economic activities, value chain, hides and skins, Maradi