Description des colonats agricoles le long de la frontiere benino-nigeriane

Agricultural colonates constitute a complex phenomenon marked by cross-border migrations and the search for fertile land, which shape the local economy and agricultural practices. This study aims to describe the agricultural colonates located along the Benin–Nigeria border. Data were collected from 386 participants through questionnaires and interviews, using purposive and snowball sampling methods. Data analysis was carried out using descriptive statistics, while verbatim transcripts provided in-depth qualitative insights. The results show that among the agricultural settlers in the study area, 60% are Beninese, 23% Togolese, 12% Nigerien, and 5% from other nationalities, contributing to the cultural and agricultural diversity of the region. The Bariba account for 27% of the settlers, followed by Ditamari (21%), Yoruba (12%), Fulani (8%), Nago (9%), and Adja (7%). The dominant crops are maize (40%), cotton (30%), soybean (15%), and food crops (10%). The Fulani mainly focus on livestock breeding, while the Bariba and Ditamari dominate maize and cotton production. Access to land (60%), soil quality (55%), and geographical location (50%) are the main factors attracting settlers, followed by economic opportunities (45%) and local agricultural policies (40%). These elements are crucial for the profitability of agricultural activities.