Challenges and opportunities in French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) production and Market outlet in Togo: prospects and future perspectives

Background French bean ( Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cultivation plays a growing role in vegetable farming systems in Togo by contributing to both household food security and income generation. However, limited information exists on production systems, constraints, and farmers' varietal preferences, particularly across contrasting agroecological zones. Methods This study was conducted in two major French bean-producing districts in Togo, Danyi and Assoli, to assess cropping practices, input use, production constraints, consumption patterns, and farmers' preferred bean traits. A purposive sampling approach was used to select farmers across villages. Data were collected from 166 farmers through structured interviews and focus group discussions. Content analysis was used to quantify the frequency of constraints and trait preferences via relative frequency (RF) and the score of relative importance (SRI). Thematic analysis was applied to identify and interpret patterns and underlying themes in the farmers' narratives. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests (Excel), and Pearson's correlation were also used. Results Significant differences were observed between districts in terms of labor use, cropping practices, and input access. French bean production is primarily market oriented, with over 80% of the harvest sold. The informal seed system dominated, with 54% of the farmers using their own farm-saved seeds and 41% purchasing from local markets. The key production constraints included diseases (RF = 45.06; SRI = 183), insect pests (RF = 45.68; SRI = 158.5), and erratic rainfall (RF = 14.20; SRI = 49), along with limited access to quality seeds, labor shortages, and market challenges. The preferred traits of farmers are high pod yield, long pods, disease, insect and drought tolerant varieties, and staggered harvesting, reflecting both market demands and production and harvest of fleshy, tender and green French bean pods. Conclusions Improving French bean production in Togo requires a multifaceted strategy, including the development and dissemination of improved, market-preferred, and environment-specific French bean varieties. Strengthening local seed systems, enhancing extension services, farmer organization support, and promotion of fair and transparent market systems will improve French bean production. All these initiatives are essential for boosting productivity, household income, and food security among smallholder farmers in Togo.