Produits forestiers non ligneux végétaux commercialisés dans les principaux marchés de Kinshasa (RDC) : diversité, importance socio-économique et enjeux de gestion durable

Abstract

Vegetal non-timber forest products (NTFPs) constitute an essential resource for food security, traditional medicine, and the livelihoods of local communities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In Kinshasa, their commercialization makes a significant contribution to the urban economy; however, information on their biological diversity, socio-economic importance, and the challenges associated with their sustainable management remains limited. This study aimed to assess the diversity of vegetal NTFPs marketed in the Gambela, Liberté, and Central markets of Kinshasa, and to analyze their ecological characteristics, uses, supply chains, and contribution to the sustainable management of forest resources. An ethnobotanical survey was conducted among traders and suppliers in the three pilot markets. Plant species were identified according to the APG IV phylogenetic classification system. Data on floristic diversity, ecological characteristics, uses, and harvesting methods were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods. A total of 118 species belonging to 88 genera were recorded. The most represented families were Fabaceae (13 species), Malvaceae (7 species), followed by Apocynaceae, Arecaceae, Clusiaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Moraceae, Rubiaceae, and Zingiberaceae (5 species each). Most species originated from the Guineo-Congolian phytogeographical region (64.4%) and forest habitats (86.44%), including 55.08% from secondary forests. Trees accounted for 45.76% of the recorded species, followed by shrubs (24.58%) and lianas (14.41%). Vegetal NTFPs were mainly used for food (44.92%) and traditional medicine (35.59%). Sarcochorous diaspores predominated (71.18%), whereas destructive harvesting practices accounted for 53.39% of the observed harvesting methods, indicating considerable pressure on forest resources. Vegetal NTFPs marketed in the major markets of Kinshasa exhibit high floristic diversity and considerable socio-economic importance. However, the predominance of destructive harvesting practices highlights the need to promote sustainable harvesting methods, strengthen conservation measures, and encourage agroforestry to ensure the long-term sustainability of these forest resources.