Variability in uses of Diospyros mespiliformis Hochst. according to socio-demographic factors in northern Benin

Diospyros mespiliformis is a tree species that has been very little studied despite its importance for local communities in Benin. This study assessed the variability of uses of the species and its organs according to socio-economic factors (origin, socio-cultural background and categories, gender, age and professions). A survey among 233 participants was conducted in the municipalities of Tchaourou, Sinende and Bembereke. Citation frequencies, reported uses and the index of importance of the different organs were calculated. Covariance analyses of all reported uses were performed to assess the factors determining uses of the species. Principal Component Analyses were performed to characterise these uses according to the determinants of species use. The results show that in the study zone, uses were determined by gender, age and socio-cultural background (P < 0.05). Adult men had more interest than others in the species. The Fulani from Tchaourou and the Bariba from Sinende used the species most for fuel and timber. The Bariba from Tchaourou and Sinende and the Fulani from Sinende had more interest in the species for food, fodder and medicinal uses. Uses of the different organs were determined by age and origin-profession-age interactions (P < 0.05). The roots and bark were most used by adults and elderly people. Herders in general and the farmers from Tchaourou were interested more specifically in the roots, stems and fruits of the species. The farmers from Bembereke and traders from Sinende and Bembereke had a greater tendency to use the bark. Furthermore, uses of the species for its wood and for fodder had a negative effect (P < 0.000) on its uses for food. These results should be taken into account in designing a strategy for the sustainable use and conservation of the species.