Farmers’ utilization and knowledge of Phaseolus bean diversity in Togo, West Africa: implications for its sustainable use and conservation

Abstract Beans of the Phaseolus genus play a crucial role in the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in Africa due to their high nutritional value and contribution to income diversification. However, in Togo, these legumes are increasingly neglected and face a growing threat of extinction. This study aims to promote their sustainable production and conservation by documenting cultivation areas, indigenous knowledge related to cropping systems, varietal diversity, and uses. An ethnobotanical survey was conducted across all regions of the country. Producers were identified through the snowball sampling method, with the support of the Institute of Advisory and Technical Support (ICAT). A total of 937 producers from 240 villages were surveyed, resulting in the identification of 94 local cultivars. The most frequently used differentiation criterion was based on “color; shape; presence of spots” (Dim1 ≈ 0; Dim2 ≈ 0). Local cultivars were grouped into two main categories: round-shaped (“V”, 54 cultivars) and flattened or kidney-shaped (“L”, 40 cultivars). Most producers cultivated only one or two cultivars (313 men vs. 315 women). Nationally, the most frequently cited cultivars were L3 (37.67%), V13 (20.28%), and L13 (18.57%). Production is mainly intended for household consumption, particularly in the Central (90.98%), Kara (86.27%), Maritime (79.09%), Plateaux-Ouest (64.71%), and Plateaux-Est (60.81%) regions, although some cultivars are marketed. The most frequently cited dishes were Véyi and Ayimolou (Dim1 ≈ 0; Dim2 ≈ 0). Other plant parts, such as leaves and dry pods, are used in traditional medicine, mystical practices, or for potash production. The highest overall ethnobotanical use value (VUET = 2.00) was recorded among the Gangam ethnic group. These findings highlight the diversity and sociocultural value of Phaseolus beans in Togo and support efforts for their conservation and sustainable utilization.