Analyse socio-économique de l’exploitation du rotin (Eremospatha haullevilleana De Wild. : Arecaceae) dans le secteur de Yakoma en République Démocratique du Congo

Abstract

This study analyzes the socio-economic, ecological, and organizational dimensions of rattan exploitation (Eremospatha haullevilleana De Wild.) in the Yakoma sector (Democratic Republic of the Congo), based on a cross-sectional survey conducted among 128 harvesters. The results reveal a strong male dominance (97.7%) and a relatively young active population (mean age ≈ 35 years), with education levels predominantly at the secondary level. Rattan exploitation mainly provides secondary income (78.9%), with an average monthly income of USD 53.54, indicating a modest yet essential contribution to rural livelihoods. Ecologically, 50% of harvesters operate in primary forests and travel on average more than 10 km, reflecting increased pressure on natural resources and progressive resource scarcity. The main threats identified are bushfires (39.8%), overexploitation (32%), and deforestation (28.1%). Despite these constraints, perceptions of sustainability are largely positive (97.7%), highlighting a discrepancy between social perception and ecological reality. Staggered harvesting is the main conservation strategy (71.1%), while domestication remains limited (18%). Multivariate analysis (MCA) identifies three distinct harvester profiles structured by economic intensity and accessibility. These findings underscore the need for institutional support, including training, technical assistance, and market structuring, to ensure the sustainability of the rattan sector.