Evaluation of the profitability and competitiveness of the gum arabic value chain in improving the living conditions of the populations in the Sahel of Burkina Faso

The study aimed to evaluate the profitability and competitiveness of the gum arabic value chain in the Sahel of Burkina Faso. Data were collected from 40 producers, 20 collectors, the gum arabic exporters association and Burkina Faso customs services. Both secondary and primary data were collected. The primary data were collected using structured questionnaires, one questionnaire per category of actors. Excel and Value Chain Analysis (VCA) Version 10 software were used for capturing and calculating profitability and competitiveness indicators. The Policy Analysis Matrix (MAP) was used as an analytical tool. Results obtained, it can be seen that the gum arabic value chain is financially and economically profitable. The analysis of competitiveness indicators shows a comparative advantage in producing gum arabic in the Sahel of Burkina Faso. Domestic resource costs show that all economic agents use domestic resources rationally. The profits thus generated would allow an increase in the production of gum arabic, which has a positive impact on improving the living conditions of farmers in the Sahel of Burkina Faso. Domestic resource costs show that all economic agents use domestic resources rationally. The profits thus generated would allow an increase in the production of gum arabic, which has a positive impact on improving the living conditions of farmers in the Sahel of Burkina Faso. Domestic resource costs show that all economic agents use domestic resources rationally. The profits thus generated would allow an increase in the production of gum arabic, which has a positive impact on improving the living conditions of farmers in the Sahel of Burkina Faso.