Diversity of Uses of the Oil Palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) in Kénédougou in the subhumic zone of Burkina Faso

Les usages du palmier à huile dans le Kénédougou

Abstract

Incorporating local knowledge and practices regarding natural resources is essential for developing strategies that are both suitable and embraced by local communities. This study aims to document the diverse uses of the oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) and assess the influence of socio-demographic factors on these uses. Individual interviews were conducted with 72 participants in the Kénédougou province. The data collected was used to calculate indice value related to useful organs (IVO) for the parts, their use value (VU) in each area of use and the relative frequency of citation (FRC) of specific uses. The findings reveal that ten parts of the plant are locally utilized. The pulp is the most commonly used part, primarily for food purposes (IOV=27.11±1.93; FRC>98%), followed by the petiole, which is used in construction and crafts (IOV=15.98±1.28; FRC>83%). The use of plant parts varies among sociodemographic groups (p<0.05). The Siamou community prefers the root, bud, leaf blade, and stem while the shell (endocarp) is more commonly used by younger individuals. Concerning the use value young men of Siamou communit utilize species’ more intensively. The results provide a foundation for developing strategies for the sustainable exploitation and conservation of the oil palm in Burkina Faso.