Perceptions of Seed Companies on the Certification of Grafted Cashew Plants in Benin

Abstract

Despite its importance in Benin’s social and economic fabric, cashew productivity remains very low due to the use of low-performing planting material. To address this constraint, the certification of grafted seedlings has emerged as a standardized measure to ensure the quality and credibility of cashew seeds. The study analyzed the perceptions of seed producers regarding the cashew seed certification process in Benin. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 22 key informants, supplemented by individual surveys of 107 producers of grafted cashew seedlings. The data were subjected to thematic content analysis supported by descriptive statistics. The results showed that more than half of the seed producers had a positive perception of the cashew seed certification mechanism. However, around 20 % of seed producers felt that certain production rules were ineffective. They also disapproved of the disqualification and systematic destruction of infested seedlings following inspection. To improve stakeholder adherence to the seed certification process, it is necessary to strengthen the institutional framework related to seed quality control and to raise awareness among producers about the rules governing seedling certification.