Women Farmers' Adoption Rates in Organic Fertilizers and Market Access Channels in Benin's Ouidah Region: An Analysis

Organic fertilizers have been identified as a promising solution for improving soil fertility and reducing environmental impact in Benin's agricultural sector. Qualitative interviews with 50 women farmers were conducted using semi-structured questionnaires focusing on perceptions, challenges, and benefits related to organic fertilizer use and market integration. Women farmers showed a moderate interest in organic fertilizers (32% reported willingness to adopt), primarily due to concerns about soil degradation. Market access was identified as a significant barrier with only 18% of respondents having direct contact with buyers or markets. The adoption rates and market engagement patterns suggest room for policy support focusing on improving market linkages and addressing environmental awareness gaps among women farmers in the Ouidah region. Implement targeted training programmes to enhance women farmers' knowledge about organic fertilizers, alongside supportive policies that facilitate market entry. Encourage collaboration between agricultural extension services and local markets.