Value chain analysis and community participation in the marketing of dragon tree (Dracaena ombet) products in Afar, Ethiopia

In rural areas, local communities collect a variety of marketable forest products. However, the information on the marketing systems and the participation of pastoral and agro-pastoral producers remains limited. This study analyzed the market opportunities, routes, value chains, and key actors involved in the commercialization of Dracaena ombet in Afar, Ethiopia. Using a mixed-methods approach, market and value chain analyses were conducted to assess product pricing and actor roles. Ordinal Least Squares (OLS) regression was used to identify price determinants, while Probit regression examined factors influencing market participation. The result showed limited market opportunities and low involvement of the private sector in the market chain. Only 38.7% of households engaged in the D. ombet market, with 89% of participants being men and just 11% women. Time in residence significantly influenced both product quantity and market participation. Strengthening market infrastructure and actor coordination is essential for promoting equitable and sustainable use of D. ombet resources.