Analysis of watermelon marketing in the city of Maradi in Niger

Abstract

In Niger, watermelon is a highly commercialized fruit due to its significant socio-economic importance to actors in the value chain. This study aims to analyze the marketing of watermelon fruit. The methodology was based on a survey of 96 traders selected using a reasoned approach. Data analysis was based on descriptive statistics and the agricultural budgeting approach. The results show that several varieties of watermelon are sold in the markets of Maradi, the most important of which are Kaolack and El Kassa. Watermelon comes from various areas of Niger and Nigeria. During the year, watermelons are abundant from January to March and July to August. The monthly net profit from watermelon sales is 408,000 CFA francs for wholesalers and 25,000 CFA francs for retailers. Thus, the sale of watermelons is a profitable activity for traders. Watermelon traders face many constraints that limit the development of their business. These results can be used by decision-makers in actions to promote the sustainable development of the watermelon value chain in Niger and West Africa.

Keywords: Watermelon, Marketing, Profitability, and Niger