Assessment of edible wild mushrooms value chain and its contribution to livelihoods improvement in Mbinga and Songea districts, Tanzania
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Date
2021
Authors
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Publisher
Sokoine University of Agriculture
Abstract
Tanzania is one of the countries endowed with high forest diversity in the world. Miombo
woodland which influence availability of wild mushroom makes up 90% of all forested
land in Tanzania. Despite advantages of edible wild mushroom in contribution to
individual livelihoods there is insufficient information on actors and their linkages in
edible wild mushroom value chain, and contribution of edible wild mushroom to
livelihood improvement. This study assessed edible wild mushrooms value chain and its
contribution to livelihoods improvement in Songea and Mbinga disricts, Tanzania.
The study identifies species of wild mushroom available in study area, mapped actors
along edible wild mushroom value chain, roles of actors in value addition and assessed
contribution of edible wild mushroom to livelihood improvement in the study area.
Six sampled plots were used for inventory. 30 collectors as sample were randomly
selected for the study. Data were collected through questionnaire survey, focus group
discussions, mushrooms’ inventory, and direct observation. Data were analyzed by
descriptive and content analysis. In study total of 42 wild mushroom species were
recorded and edible wild mushroom weighted. On average about 4.13 kg of mushroom
were collected per plot in 1 hector which means individuals are able to generate income
of 4130 up to 10 352 TZS per plot. The prices per kg ranged from 1000 to 2500 for fresh
mushroom while for dried mushroom 10 000 up to 12 000 TZS. The value chain of edible
wild mushroom in study areas consists collectors and consumers as key actors. Generally,
value chain is dominated by women (73.3%) while men comprise of only 26.7%.
Collectors collects mainly Amanita, Russula, Cantharellus and Lactarius species.
Collection of edible wild mushrooms is done one day up to seven days per week,
selection of species to be collected depending on availability, preferences, and storage
possibility. The mushrooms that were sold are fresh and dried, 60.0% of respondents sold fresh mushrooms, 33.3% both dried and fresh and 6.7% dried. Edible wild mushroom
contributes to livelihood for those engaged in collections and trade as it provides
alternative income for accessing social services but also can boost others productive
activities. Edibility of the mushroom was identified mainly using local indicators.
Training on domestication and preservation was identified as key for increasing
commercialization of the product.
Description
Dissertation
Keywords
Edible wild mushrooms, Mashroom value chain, Livelihoods improvement, Tanzania, Mbinga-Songea districts