Drivers of change in Benin’s vegetable food system

Abstract

Most food systems are far from perfect, and in aggregate are operating outside of safe boundaries in terms of diets, livelihoods and environment. This study uses narrative synthesis across multiple studies and data sources, aiming to determine which food system issues most enable and constrain positive food system outcomes for vegetables in the context of Benin. The study describes major food system contexts in Benin, across agroecological, socio-economic, and policy axes. It then provides evidence on the major achievements and gaps in three major food system outcomes: food and diets, equity and livelihoods, and sustainability and environment. In describing vegetables from production to provision, the paper summarises evidence around agricultural inputs, vegetable production and processing, national and international trade, and food environments. Towards food system transformation, a set of necessary changes are identified across the food system, in push (production and supply), pull (demand and activism) and policy (legislation and governance) areas. There are clear synergies but also trade-offs among these drivers of change, which are discussed. Making change happen equitably requires a combination of top down and bottom up approaches, with committed change agents working for vegetable-rich food systems.