traditional uses and trade

Background: Wild edible plants (WEPs) are among the most important non-timber forest products harvested because of their contribution for food security of local populations and generation of income for families. To evaluate the importance of WEPs in Guinea-Bissau (West Africa), this study characterized the diversity of their uses in the country and discusses their current socioeconomic relevance and potential for sustainable use, and conservation. Methods: Data on WEPs were collected during fieldwork and market surveys carried out across the country, as well as from bibliographic and herbarium sources. A total of 62 interviews (49 women and 13 men, aged 15–60 years) were conducted between November 2021 and August 2024. A set of variables concerning the collection, trade, and consumption of WEPs was drawn up to classify the socioeconomic importance of the species traded. Results: We documented 115 WEPs from 45 families and 89 genera; 111 of them are native species and four are introduced and naturalized in Guinea-Bissau. Most of the WEP are woody plants found in woodlands and savannah woodlands. Fruits, followed by leaves and underground organs are the most usually consumed parts, mainly eaten raw. Thirty-nine WEPs are traded in the markets, eight of which can be considered as having high socioeconomic importance both as food and income source. Some patterns of use can be highlighted: children consume a larger number of wild fruits than adults, certain plants are only eaten in periods of food shortage, and several species are highly valued in the markets. Conclusions: In Guinea-Bissau, WEPs play a key role in the traditional diet of local communities, especially when crops are scarce, thus ensuring food security, particularly for the most vulnerable populations. The sustainable use of WEPs can contribute to the well-being of local populations and to the conservation of the natural resources and ecosystems in this West African country.