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This research estimated the impact of credit uptake (formal, informal, and family) on youth entrepreneurship performance in Benin using panel data from a World Bank survey on enterprise formalization. To address potential endogeneity and ensure the robustness of results, we employed multiple models and estimation techniques (fixed‐effects and Lewbel approach). Our results showed that, while formal credit was most important for larger firms, smaller firms benefited mainly from flexible (informal or family) credit. The impact of credit uptake was generally higher for female‐owned firms. There were also variations in uptake according to the firm owner's age. The impact of formal credit was relatively higher for older firm owners while informal credit impacted more younger owners. The findings highlight the importance of informal and family credit sources, especially for start‐ups and small firms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of Pseudosperma is described based on collections recently made in Benin in West Africa. Pseudosperma brunneopilosum sp. nov. occurs in forests dominated by ectomycorrhizal Fabaceae Isoberlinia and Phyllanthaceae Uapaca trees. Phylogenetic analysis of combined ITS‐LSU‐RPB2‐TEF1 gene regions shows that P. brunneopilosum is unrelated and distinct from several recently described species of Pseudosperma also from West Africa. Complete descriptions and illustrations, including photographs and line drawings are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To analyse the demographic, clinical and laboratory data of Beninese patients with haemophilia. Method: A prospective survey was conducted in three different hospitals of Benin from April 2021 to March 2022, to analyse clinical and biological features of patients with haemophilia previously diagnosed or identified based on personal/family history. Results: A total of 101 patients were studied, 97 with haemophilia A and 4 with haemophilia B, including 26 new cases identified after family investigation. Their median age was 11 years, and the most frequent initial manifestations were cutaneous‐mucosal haemorrhages (29.70%) and post‐circumcision haemorrhages (25.74%). Previous joint bleedings were present in 77% of them, with an arthropathy in 65 cases, which particularly affected the knees (75%), elbows (41%) and ankles (29%). Factor VIII (FVIII) levels combined with activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) values did not always enable, as would be expected, the distinction between severe and moderate haemophilia, since they were >1 IU/dl in 31 of 74 patients with APTT > 80 s, and between 1 and 2 IU/dl in 26 other cases with previous joint haemorrhages, including 18 with chronic arthropathy. Therefore, for these patients, severe haemophilia could not be excluded, and this uncertainty probably reflects technical difficulties affecting the pre‐analytical and analytical stages of the APTT and FVIII/IX assays. Conclusion: Our study proved that haemophilia is a significant reality in Benin, but also remains under‐diagnosed in some districts of the country. In addition, more reliable biological tests are needed in the future to better define the severity of the disease and improve treatment of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding genotype by environment interaction (GEI) represents a challenge in Kersting's groundnut [Macrotyloma geocarpum (Harms) Maréchal and Baudet] breeding for selecting high‐performing and stable lines across environments. Here, we investigated GEI and stability in Kersting's groundnut using factor analytic (FA) based linear mixed models and environmental covariates. A total of 375 accessions were evaluated across 3 years (2017, 2018, and 2019) and two locations (Sékou and Savè) in Benin, generating five environments (E1, E2, E3, E4, and E5). The traits measured included days to 50% flowering (DFF), grain yield (YLD), and 100‐seed weight (HSW). The study generated multi‐environment values for grain yield and its components in Kersting's groundnut. The genetic correlations between pairs of environments ranged from −0.71 to 0.99. The genetic correlations between YLD and HSW indicated positive and moderate to high correlations in all environments. The FA analysis revealed that FA2 structure accounted for 93.9% of the genetic variability in DFF with factor 1 accounting for more than 90% of the environments variations. Two factors explained 87% of the genetic variance in grain yield, and 70% of the environments variability were clustered by factor 1. For HSW, two factors explained 85% of the genetic variance of the environments, and factor 1 accounted for 72.7%. Combining environmental covariates to FA models revealed that precipitation, temperature, and growth cycle duration were highly correlated to the environmental loadings of factor 1. Relative humidity and solar radiation showed moderate to high correlations with factor 2 loadings. Those covariates explained the high GEI among environments clustered by a given factor. Precipitations and temperatures affected the variations in grain yield. Finally, based on latent regression analysis, the accessions AF202, AF221, AF223, AF225, and AF256 were identified as accessions combining best performance for grain yield, early flowering, and 100‐seed weight, showing adaptability across environments and stability to some environments. Core Ideas: In plant breeding, understanding the genotype by environment interaction (GEI) represents a challenge for selecting high‐performing and stable lines across environments, especially for development of climate‐smart cultivars of Kersting's groundnut (Macrotyloma geocarpum).Multiplicative factor analytic (FA) structures have been proposed as a more parsimonious approach dealing with unbalanced data and allowing analysis of main factors affecting GEI.Latent regression plots of superior genotypes across environments and FA structures are efficient to infer about GEI, adaptability, and stability of Kersting's groundnut accessions.The environmental loadings of FA models can be correlated to climatic covariates to examine trends in the genotypes' performance across environments according to environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding how primary productivity and diversity affect secondary productivity is an important debate in ecology with implications for biodiversity conservation. Particularly, how plant diversity influences arthropod diversity contributes to our understanding of trophic cascades and species coexistence. Previous studies show a positive correlation between plant and arthropod diversity. The theory of associational resistance suggests that plant herbivory rate will decrease with increasing plant diversity indicating feedbacks between primary diversity, productivity, and secondary productivity rates. However, our understanding of how these relations are mediated by anthropogenic disturbance is still limited. We surveyed 10 forest sites, half of which are disturbed by fire, logging, and tree pruning, distributed in two climatic zones in Benin, West Africa. We established 100 transects to record plant species and sampled arthropods using pitfall traps, ceramic plates with bait, and sweeping nets. We developed a structural equation model to test the mediating effect of chronic anthropogenic disturbance on plant diversity and how it influences arthropod diversity and abundance. Arthropod diversity increased but arthropod abundance decreased with increasing intensity of disturbance. We found no significant bottom‐up influence of the plant diversity on arthropod diversity but a significant plant diversity–arthropod abundance relationship. Some arthropod guilds were significantly affected by plant diversity. Finally, herbivory rates were positively associated with arthropod diversity. Synthesis. Our results highlight how chronic anthropogenic disturbance can mediate the functional links between trophic levels in terms of diversity and productivity. Our study demonstrated a decoupled response of arthropod diversity and abundance to disturbance. The direct positive influence of plant diversity on herbivory rates we found in our study provides counter‐support for the theory of associational resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease. It is particularly prevalent in tropical countries and has major consequences for human and animal health. In Benin, the disease's epidemiology remains poorly understood, especially in livestock, for which data are lacking. Objectives: To characterise Leptospira seroprevalence and locally circulating serogroups in livestock from Cotonou and to estimate the prevalence of Leptospira renal carriage in cattle. Methods: We conducted a cross‐sectional study in February 2020 during which livestock were sampled at an abattoir and in an impoverished city district. We analysed blood samples from 279 livestock animals (i.e. cattle, sheep, goats and pigs) using the microscopic agglutination test. Additionally, samples of renal tissue from 100 cattle underwent 16s rRNA (rrs) real‐time PCR analysis. Results: For the 131 cattle, 85 sheep, and 50 goats tested, seroprevalence was 18% (95% confidence interval [CI] [12%, 26%]), 9% (95% CI [4%, 17%] and 2% (95% CI [0%, 9%]), respectively, and most of the seropositive animals were associated with 1:100 titres. All 13 pigs were seronegative. Leptospira DNA was found in the renal tissue of 10% (95% CI [5%, 18%]) of the cattle tested (n = 100). Leptospira borgpetersenii was the main species present (n = 7), but Leptospira interrogans (n = 2) and Leptospira kirschneri (n = 1) were also detected. Various serogroups (Canicola, Grippotyphosa, Sejroe, Icterohaemorrhagiae, Pomona, Pyrogenes, Australis and Autumnalis) were detected using microscopic agglutination test without a clear predominance of any of them. Conclusions: These results suggest that abattoir workers and people living in close contact with livestock in poor urban areas are exposed to the risk of Leptospira infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, Hooded Vulture populations in West Africa have decreased substantially. However, in some areas within this region, the species is still relatively abundant. To find out more about the situation in West Africa, we assessed the status of Hooded Vultures in Benin, one of the countries where their status is not well known. We conducted road counts on paved and unpaved roads and along small trails over a total of 1451 km. We also conducted interviews with local abattoir watchmen, veterinarians, butchers and foresters to examine potential threats to this species. A total of 52 Hooded Vultures were counted mostly in the departments of Atacora (32) but also in Alibori (10) and Borgou (10). The relative abundance was four Hooded Vultures per 100 km, highlighting the near extirpation of this bird from Benin. A total of 49 interviews revealed that poaching for belief‐based use (through shooting and traps) and decreasing food availability remain the most important threats for Hooded Vultures in northern Benin. If these threats are not mitigated, we predict the extirpation of the Hooded Vulture outside protected areas in Benin within the next two decades, possibly even sooner. Conservation measures, including awareness campaigns, and the improvement and enforcement of environmental legislation, must be urgently implemented to improve the protection of this Critically Endangered vulture species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research Highlight: Badou et al. (2023). Maritime international trade and bioinvasions: A three‐year long survey of small mammals in Autonomous Port of Cotonou, Benin. Journal of Applied Ecology, https://doi.org/10.1111/1365‐2664.14557. Highly connected points are probably the entry point for many of the introduced species around the world. This is the case of the Port of Cotonou in Africa, where the authors evaluated the population dynamics of small mammals present in the Autonomous Port of Cotonou, in Benin, Africa. Two main zones of the port were assessed: the industrial port, with warehouses, storage rooms, restaurants, garages and open areas, among other uses, and the artisanal port, with rooms where fresh fish and fishing gears are stores, along with the fresh fish market. Using traps, they were able to find that three of the '100 most invasive species' are present at the study area: the house mice (Mus musculus), black rat (Rattus rattus) and Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus). Two native species were also found, Mastomys natalensis and Crocidura olivieri. The authors found clear trends in the species preferences and co‐occurrences. Norwegian rats and house mice prefer industrial‐like environments, so they are mostly found in the industrial port. The Black rats, on the other hand, are present almost exclusively in the artisanal port. They were also able to determine that control efforts should be carefully planned to show long‐term effective results, involving decision makers and stakeholders at every step of the management process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the midst of recent protests and antiracism movements following the death of George Floyd in May of 2020 and other Black, Indigenous, and people of Color (BIPOC) murdered in the United States by police violence, protestors and advocates around the world recognized the need for Western governments and other institutions to reckon with their own imperial history—to acknowledge the linkage between the slave trade, colonialism, and racism in their countries. This recognition led to the tearing down of statues depicting racist colonial leaders and calling for museums who have perpetuated imperialism and racism through their acceptance and display of looted artifacts to return them. This article sought to answer the question posed in the call for papers, can the many manifestations of racism be effectively dealt with in our society if the status quo is unwilling to engage with the issues, address them, and relinquish power. Further the author argues that cultural looting has its roots in colonialism and racism and discusses implications of the linkage between one's stolen cultural heritage and individual and community well‐being. Answers to the question include both yes, manifestations of racism can be addressed, and no, they cannot be addressed when institutions and governments refuse to engage, address the issue and do not relinquish power. The article also includes the author's thoughts on using a living heritage approach to preserve cultural heritage and offers suggestions that community psychologists, advocates and activists can help to decolonize museums as part of the broader social and racial justice movement. Highlights: Preserving cultural heritage is important for identityMuseums should be held accountable for stolen artifactsStolen artifacts of any type should be repatriated [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Birth asphyxia is a leading cause of neonatal mortality in sub‐Saharan Africa. The relationship to grand multiparity (GM), a controversial pregnancy risk factor, remains largely unexplored, especially in the context of large multinational studies. We investigated birth asphyxia and its association with GM and referral in Benin, Malawi, Tanzania and Uganda. Material and methods: This was a prospective cross‐sectional study. Data were collected using a perinatal e‐Registry in 16 hospitals (four per country). The study population consisted of 80 663 babies (>1000 g, >28 weeks' gestational age) delivered between July 2021 and December 2022. The primary outcome was birth asphyxia, defined by 5‐minute appearance, pulse, grimace, activity and respiration score <7. A multilevel and stratified multivariate logistic regression was performed with GM (parity ≥5) as exposure, and birth asphyxia as outcome. An interaction between referral (none, prepartum, intrapartum) and GM was also evaluated as a secondary outcome. All models were adjusted for confounders. Clinical Trial: Pan African Clinical Trial Registry 202006793783148. Results: Birth asphyxia was present in 7.0% (n = 5612) of babies. More babies with birth asphyxia were born to grand multiparous women (11.9%) than to other parity groups (≤7.6%). Among the 76 850 cases included in the analysis, grand multiparous women had a 1.34 times higher odds of birth asphyxia (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.17–1.54) vs para one to two. Grand multiparous women referred intrapartum had the highest probability of asphyxiation (13.02%, 95% CI 9.34–16.69). GM increased odds of birth asphyxia in Benin (odds ratio [OR] 1.37, 95% CI 1.13–1.68) and Uganda (OR 1.29, 95% CI 1.02–1.64), but was non‐significant in Tanzania (OR 1.44, 95% CI 0.81–2.56) and Malawi (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.67–1.44). Conclusions: There is some evidence of an increased risk of birth asphyxia for grand multiparous women having babies at hospitals, especially following intrapartum referral. Antenatal counseling should recognize grand multiparity as higher risk and advise appropriate childbirth facilities. Findings in Malawi suggest an advantage of health systems configuration requiring further exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil erosion has become one of the most common environmental problems and threatens food security. This study assessed the short‐term effect of tillage and mulch on soil redistribution using the beryllium‐7 method, soil moisture distribution, and soil organic carbon loss through soil erosion in typical agroecological conditions of Benin. The experiment was conducted on acrisols (at Dan) and ferralsols (at Za‐zounmè) in central Benin. Three tillage practices slope ridging (SR), contour ridging (CR), and no‐tillage (NT), and three mulch doses 0 (0 M), 3 (3 M), and 7 t ha−1 (7 M) on soil erosion under maize were investigated. The results showed a tillage and mulch interaction significantly (p < 0.05) influencing the soil redistribution, the loss of total carbon, the carbon of the particulate organic matter (C_POM), and the carbon content of the fine organic matter (C_MOM). High soil erosion was observed under SR0M (−10.19 t ha−1) at Dan and under NT0M (−7.36 t ha−1) at Za‐zounmè. NT7M (0.80 t ha−1), SR7M (0.69 t ha−1), CR3M (2.07 t ha−1), and CR7M (4.05 t ha−1) showed deposition at Dan, while SR7M (0.23 t ha−1), NT7M (1.69 t ha−1), and CR7M (3.93 t ha−1) showed deposition at Za‐zounmè. C_MOM was lost on both sites. Mulch increases soil moisture for all three tillage treatments, and this effect is well pronounced especially if the amount of mulch is great. This study revealed useful information to be taken into consideration when developing soil and water conservation management strategies in Benin. Core Ideas: The application of 7Be provides accurate information on the effects of land management on soil erosion rates.Contour ridging and no‐tillage combined with 3–7 t ha−1 of mulch reduced soil erosion and increased soil moisture.Fine organic matter was the most lost.To have real benefit from mulch, a 3–7 t ha−1 should be applied.There is a positive correlation between soil erosion and the loss of organic carbon fractions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effectiveness of Balanites aegyptiaca conservation and sustainable exploitation requires a better knowledge of the intrinsic environmental factors linked with its current and future geographic distribution. This study aimed to map suitable areas for the conservation and domestication of B. aegyptiaca under present‐day and future climate conditions in Benin. A total of 424 occurrence records of B. aegyptiaca were combined with the environmental variables of two climatic scenarios (optimistic RCP 4.5 and pessimistic RCP 8.5) following the biodiversity modeling approach (biomod2). Findings were that under current and future climate conditions (RCP 4.5 and 8.5), almost one‐third of the country's area (protected and non‐protected areas), mainly located in the semiarid zone, presents a high probability of suitable areas for the conservation and domestication of B. aegyptiaca by 2055 time horizon. Exceptionally, a fine portion of medium suitable area for its distribution was found in the coastal area. Whatever the future climatic scenarios, a probable potential extension of the suitable areas (2.52% for RCP 4.5 and 0.43% for RCP 8.5) will be noted, thus emphasizing a positive impact of climate changes on the species. These findings are timely and could be used for setting appropriate management policies targeting the species in Benin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Variations in physico-chemical parameters of water as abiotic factors affect the spatio-temporal distributions of the organisms that live in it. The present study aims to determine the influence of physico-chemical properties on Ardeidae spatiotemporal variations in the wetland of Ramsar site 1018 in Benin. To reach this goal, transect enumeration techniques and stationary counts lasting 15-30 min were used to count Ardeidae species once a month at different sites such as Nokoué Lake, Sô River, Porto-Novo Lagoon, Ouémé River and ancient Lagoons from January 2015 to December 2016. Water physico-chemical parameters were measured at three stations per site during the bird counts. Five of the 12 species recorded monthly were significantly influenced (p< 0.05) by water physico-chemical parameters. It was then revealed that pH influenced Ardeidae spatial variation. Such information is relevant to the management of Ramsar Site 1018, which hosts migratory waterbird species from Palearctic (Eurasia) every year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Theory in ethnobiology suggests that the selection of medicinal plants by local people in a given region is not random and evolutionary closely related species may have similar medicinal uses. Additionally, plants selection by local people is often driven by plant therapeutic efficacy, plant availability, plant versatility or local knowledge on medicinal plants.We tested the hypothesis of non‐random selection of medicinal plants as well as the potential mechanisms explaining such non‐random plants selection. We also tested for phylogenetic signal in medicinal plants. Our study was based in four villages across Benin, West Africa, where the local communities have deep knowledge about medicinal plants. We installed 91 plots around these four villages to establish the total list of plant species and their abundance. We then conducted ethnobotanical surveys in the same villages to identify medicinal plants used in the local pharmacopoeia. To test whether the selection of medicinal plants used in the region was non‐random and whether plant selection was driven by plant therapeutic efficacy, plant availability, plant versatility or local knowledge, we used a generalized linear model. Furthermore, we used the D‐statistic to test whether evolutionary closely related species are more commonly used as medicinal than other species.We found support for non‐random medicinal plant selection. Such a non‐random plant selection was driven by plant medicinal versatility. Plant availability and secondary compounds have no significant influence on plant selection. Local people's knowledge on medicinal plants was significantly affected by individuals' literacy but not by their gender, their age or the ethnic group they belong to. We found a weak phylogenetic signal in medicinal plant uses.Our study reveals that the most used families are not necessarily the ones that have more secondary compounds or that are the most available to the local people, but are the most versatile plants. The high level of medicinal flora used at the local scale, which contrasts with the country‐level analysis found by previous studies, suggests new methodological guidance in testing the theory of non‐random medicinal plants selection. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecosystem services are fundamental to people and are undergoing many threats such as uncontrolled fire. Local knowledge has been widely used to guide management decisions for plant biodiversity. Therefore, we assessed the knowledge of the people of Pendjari Biosphere Reserve (PBR) on the impact of fire on ecosystem services (ES). A semi-structured questionnaire with three fire impact levels (no, low and high) was used to interview 150 randomly selected households in four ethnic groups. The generalised linear model (GLM) was performed on the relative frequency of quotations to assess the effect of ethnic group, age and sex for each impact level of fire on ES and also to test the interaction among the considered factors. The local people reported that uncontrolled fire causes damage to many provisioning ES. The local knowledge concerning the impact of fire on ES was affected significantly (p<0.0001) by ethnic group, age and sex irrespective of the impact level of fire on ES. Moreover, there was no significant interaction among the considered factors. The studied factors are benchmarks to be integrated into awareness and preservation measures of ES to mitigate the impact of uncontrolled fire practices in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The party system literature has generally paid little attention to whether traditional beliefs have any impact on voters' electoral behavior and the stability of party systems. The purpose of the present study shows that the stability of party systems and the pervasiveness of traditional beliefs go hand-in-hand. This article is expected to advance the scholarly understanding of the political consequences of traditional beliefs by showing that voters who hold traditional beliefs or engage in traditional practices are not simply less likely to have pro-democratic attitudes or have a greater appreciation of dictatorial rule, but also more likely to vote for ruling parties in elections. The evidence presented in the article sustains a basic claim; namely, that the pervasiveness of traditional beliefs in Togolese society should be regarded as one of the determinants of the party system's stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Termites contribute to the spatial heterogeneity of the ecological processes of the highly degraded lands called the bowé in West Africa, but the underlying determinants of the distribution of the mounds remain poorly understood. Thus, the study aims to determine the principal abiotic and biotic factors shaping mound densities on bowé in Benin, West Africa. A number of 64 plots were randomly sampled on sites with mounds and adjacent off‐mounds sites on bowé. Data were collected on abiotic (soil variables (pH, bulk density, particle sizes and soil organic carbon) and altitude) and biotic (the number of live termite mounds, plant richness and cover) factors. Correspondence analysis (CA) was applied to assess the pattern of vegetation and termite mounds on bowé; while principal component analysis (PCA) was used to assess the relationship between soil variables (pH, bulk density, particle size and soil organic carbon), altitude, number of mounds, plant richness and cover. Generalised mixed effects and linear mixed effects models with Poisson error distribution were used to analyse the variation in soil variables, number of mounds, species richness and cover between termite species. The findings revealed that the pattern of termite mounds on bowé was driven by altitude (topography) and soil clay content that contribute to termite activities as well as improving soil bulk density, plant species richness and cover. These factors were positively associated with all termite species considered, except for those belonging to the genus of Macrotermes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a collection of abstracts from a symposium on helminth diseases, which explores various aspects of these diseases including the One Health approach, vaccine development, parasite diagnosis, and their impact on human and animal health. The abstracts emphasize the need for collaboration, diverse perspectives, and research to improve public health. Other studies discussed in the document include an assessment of health services expenditure in Benin, research on improving diagnostic tools for schistosomiasis, a study on the scalability of psychological interventions for refugees, an exploration of the association between pregnancy complications and chronic diseases in low- and middle-income countries, and a qualitative study on barriers to influenza vaccine uptake in Tunisia. These studies provide valuable insights for policymakers and researchers in addressing these health issues. [Extracted from the article]

Seasonal rainfall forecasts from the West African Regional Climate Outlook Forum (RCOF) are essential for adapting to climate variability. However, their temporal aggregated nature is a strong limitation, especially when used with impact models requiring daily resolution, such as hydrological or crop models. To address this issue, this study proposes a temporal disaggregation method for these forecasts using in situ data from two districts (Kandi and Parakou) in northern Benin, spanning from 1971 to 2020. A resampling technique was used to construct a daily historical record that aligns with seasonal rainfall forecasts. Three stochastic disaggregation models for rainfall (SRGs) were developed, including two parametric models (SRG1 and SRG2) and one semiparametric (SRG3). Their parameters were estimated from the resampled record to generate daily synthetic data replicating the forecasts. Evaluation of the SRGs revealed that SRG2, which combined a first‐order Markov chain with a mixed exponential distribution, performs well in simulating various characteristics of the rainy season, including dry spells, wet spells and daily precipitations. Furthermore, SRG2 maintained the trends of the initial forecasts and outperformed SRG1 and SRG3, as confirmed by the chi‐square test. Indeed, a good agreement was observed between the probabilities of the initial prediction and those calculated from the temporal disaggregation with the SRG2 method. Also, for the forecasts expressed by probabilities 15–35–50 and 20–50–30, the cumulative distribution function curves (CDF) of the SRGs exhibited appropriate shifts compared to climatology. These forecasts were specific to the Kandi area in 2008 and 2003, respectively, during the West African RCOFs. Although this study focused specifically on the Kandi and Parakou districts, the temporal disaggregation methodology used can be applied to other locations within West Africa or other RCOFs worldwide. This study offers valuable guidance for generating sector‐specific seasonal forecasts for the West African region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The museum world is currently grappling with questions of how to decolonize anthropological collections and many of these debates are epistemologically oriented. In pursuit of colonial ordering, material culture was extracted from colonized societies, deprived of its contextual meaning, and scrutinized through the lens of colonial knowledge. This article considers how an empirical decolonial practice can be applied drawing on from the current work at the Manchester Museum (MM). Dialogue, open engagements, multivocal conversations, collaborations, and shared authority in knowledge production are some of the decolonial strategies that I share. To illustrate this praxis turn in museum decolonial work, I first look at how we have addressed cultural objects looted from Benin in 1897 that we hold and "contain" at MM in our living cultures collection, underscoring a commitment by MM to transparency and a provision of access to the living collection by different groups of people. The second example is drawn from a collaborative provenance research that I undertook with Nongoma community members in South Africa in rewriting biographies of Zulu beadwork that we house at MM. Overall, I argue that decolonization should embrace a relational practice of caring for objects through active relations of reciprocity and dialogue with communities. The downside of decolonial practices and how are they are inherently shaped by power imbalances and tensions between curators and communities is also critically discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is currently an important pest of maize crops worldwide not only because of its dispersal ability but also because of its polyphagous feeding behaviour. Lack of sufficient information on the management of the fall armyworm attacks remains a crucial problem for maize smallholder farmers in Africa. In this study, 420 farmers were surveyed in central and west Africa using individual interviews to assess farmers' knowledges and perceptions of the fall armyworm damages and the management practices used. Most farmers (99.4%) were shown to recognize the fall armyworm and 92.5% claimed to already have damages in their fields. The fall armyworm seems not to be a new pest as most farmers identified it in different countries from 2015 to 2019. Apart from maize as the preferred crop of S. frugiperda, several alternative host plants including Napier grass, sorghum, onion, and cabbage were identified by the farmers. Although cultural and mechanical control methods are used by several farmers, the synthetic pesticide market is still preferred by almost half of the farmers (44.28%) who still use them. To control fall armyworm, 96.4% in Burkina Faso, 85.3% in Gabon, 65.2% in Benin and 25% in DR Congo reported using insecticides, against 5.9% in Senegal. Semiochemical‐based method and biological control by promoting natural enemies of the fall armyworm are new concepts for farmers in DR Congo, Gabon and Benin. To avoid additional problems regarding health and resilience of agricultural systems, alternative methods such as push–pull approach, the development of biopesticides and resistant cultivars should form the basis of training given to farmers and should be popularized for sustainable control of the fall armyworm in central and west Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pangolins are globally threatened by unsustainable hunting for local use and illegal international trade, plus habitat loss. In Benin (West Africa), white‐bellied and giant pangolins have experienced a contraction in their distribution areas and population decline during the last two decades. To better understand the factors underlying declines in these species, we investigated extirpation rates of populations over the last 20 years. Because pangolins are elusive species difficult to monitor by standard methods, the status of populations has been assessed through a local ecological knowledge (LEK) approach. We collected information on persistence or extirpation status of pangolins from 156 localities. A binomial model was built to predict population persistence probability as a function of past and ongoing landscape changes, initial abundance (1998), human pressures, and density of the protected area network. The LEK‐based model was highly accurate (97% correct classification rate) in predicting the presence of white‐bellied pangolin in 52 localities where its presence has been confirmed independently. According to model outputs, persistence probability of pangolins is positively related to distance to main road, initial population abundance, and negatively related to deforestation, shrinkage of favorable habitat, and distance to protected areas. When those factors are controlled for, the white‐bellied pangolin has a higher probability of persistence than the giant pangolin. Even assuming no further habitat change, the distribution area of the white‐bellied pangolin is predicted to keep decreasing against an unavoidable extinction of the giant pangolin in Benin in the next two decades. Besides validating the usefulness of LEK as a population assessment method, this study emphasizes that, despite a demonstrated positive effect of protected areas, the current situation is not sustainable for pangolins and calls for urgent conservation actions to stop or reduce overhunting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cochlospermum spp. root powder is widely used by local populations in Sudanian zone of Benin as food ingredient. This study aims at documenting the mineral profile of Cochlospermum spp. root powder and the consumption frequencies of foods enriched with this species in the three phytodistricts of Sudanian zone of Benin. A consumption frequency survey was conducted among 449 women of reproductive age and their children (n = 406) aged 6 to 59 months. Processing follow‐up was performed among twelve (12) selected processors per phytodistict and samples were collected for minerals (Ca, Mg, Na, P, Fe, Zn, Cu, and Mn) analysis. Results showed that most (>75%) women and their children consumed foods enriched with Cochlospermum spp. root powder at least two times per day. The mineral contents (expect Ca and P) of Cochlospermum spp. root powder do not vary significantly according to phytodistricts. High mineral content was obtained for iron (54.1 ± 21.5 mg/100 g dry weight) and calcium (573.7 ± 98 and 802.5 ± 49.9 mg/100 g dry weight, respectively in Atacora Chain and Northern Borgou phytodistricts). Cochlospermum spp. root powder could be used to alleviate iron and calcium deficiencies among populations. Further studies should focus on the bioavailability of minerals and anti‐nutrients content of this plant food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Many SARS‐CoV‐2 seroprevalence surveys since the end of 2020 have disqualified the first misconception that Africa had been spared by the pandemic. Through the analysis of three SARS‐CoV‐2 seroprevalence surveys carried out in Benin as part of the ARIACOV project, we argue that the integration of epidemiological serosurveillance of the SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in the national surveillance packages would be of great use to refine the understanding of the COVID‐19 pandemic in Africa. Methods: We carried out three repeated cross‐sectional surveys in Benin: two in Cotonou, the economic capital in March and May 2021, and one in Natitingou, a semi‐rural city in the north of the country in August 2021. Total and weighted‐by‐age‐group seroprevalences were estimated and the risk factors for SARS‐CoV‐2 infection were assessed by multivariate logistic regression. Results: In Cotonou, a slight increase in overall age‐standardised SARS‐CoV‐2 seroprevalence from 29.77% (95% CI: 23.12%–37.41%) at the first survey to 34.86% (95% CI: 31.57%–38.30%) at the second survey was observed. In Natitingou, the globally adjusted seroprevalence was 33.34% (95% CI: 27.75%–39.44%). A trend of high risk for SARS‐CoV 2 seropositivity was observed in adults over 40 versus the young (less than 18 years old) during the first survey in Cotonou but no longer in the second survey. Conclusions: Our results show that, however, rapid organisation of preventive measures aimed at breaking the chains of transmission, they were ultimately unable to prevent a wide spread of the virus in the population. Routine serological surveillance on strategic sentinel sites and/or populations could constitute a cost‐effective compromise to better anticipate the onset of new waves and define public health strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Since many countries in sub‐Saharan Africa are willing to implement HIV oral pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for men who have sex with men (MSM), data are needed to assess its feasibility and relevance in real life. The study objectives were to assess drug uptake, adherence, condom use and number of sexual partners, HIV incidence and trends in the prevalence of gonorrhoea and chlamydia. Methods: In this oral PrEP demonstration study conducted prospectively in Benin, a combination of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate‐TDF 300 mg and emtricitabine‐FTC 200 mg (TDF‐FTC) was offered daily or on‐demand to MSM. Participants were recruited from 24 August to 24 November 2020 and followed over 12 months. At enrolment, month‐6 and month‐12, participants answered to a face‐to‐face questionnaire, underwent a physical examination and provided blood samples for HIV, gonorrhoea and chlamydia. Results: Overall, 204 HIV‐negative men initiated PrEP. The majority of them (80%) started with daily PrEP. Retention rates at month‐3, 6, 9 and 12 were 96%, 88%, 86% and 85%, respectively. At month‐6 and month‐12, respectively, 49% and 51% of the men on daily PrEP achieved perfect adherence (self‐reported), that is seven pills taken during the last week. For event‐driven PrEP, the corresponding proportions for perfect adherence (last seven at‐risk sexual episodes covered) were 81% and 80%, respectively. The mean number (standard deviation) of male sexual partners over the last 6 months was 2.1 (1.70) at baseline and 1.5 (1.27) at month‐12 (p‐value for trend <0.001). Consistent condom use during the last 6 months was 34% (enrolment), 37% (month‐6) and 36% (month‐12). Three HIV seroconversions (2‐daily and 1‐event‐driven) were recorded. Crude HIV incidence (95% confidence interval) was 1.53 (0.31−4.50)/100 person‐years. Neisseria gonorrhoeae and/or Chlamydia trachomatis prevalence at the anal and/or pharyngeal and/or urethral sites was 28% at baseline and 18% at month‐12 (p‐value = 0.017). Conclusions: In West Africa, oral PrEP introduction in routine practice as a component of a holistic HIV prevention package is feasible and may not result in a significant increase in condomless sex among MSM. Since HIV incidence was still higher, additional interventions, such as culturally tailored adherence counselling, may be needed to optimize the benefits of PrEP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caesalpinia bonduc (L.) Roxb, the most commercialised medicinal species in Southern Benin, is reported to be extinct in the wild due to anthropogenic pressures on its natural habitats. Remaining individuals can only be found in traditional agroforestry systems and home gardens. It is therefore important to understand how spatio‐temporal distribution of the species could be impacted by changing environmental conditions and propose strategies to be used for its conservation. Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) modelling technique was used for modelling the current and future distribution of the species using present‐day combined with two future forecast scenarios (Representative Concentration Pathways‐RCP): low‐RCP4.5 and high‐RCP8.5 emission scenarios. Environmental and demographic factors have impacted the distribution of the species. Rainfall driest quarter (44.5%), population density (30.4%), rainfall driest month (14.7%), potential evapotranspiration (6.5%) and number of dry months (4%) mostly contributed to the model. High suitable areas of the species will increase about (2.28%) and (0.06%) with the RCP8.5 and RCP4.5, respectively, at horizon 2055. In contrast, less suitable areas will decrease about 3.11% (RCP4.5) and 1.71% (RCP8.5). In‐situ conservation strategy is suggested to restore the species in the wild taking into account suitable areas for its growth, development and reproduction. Circa‐situ conservation should be promoted in agroforestry systems and home gardens for sustainable use of the species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This cross‐sectional study aims at analyzing the perceptions of mothers, community leaders, and nutrition/health care workers (NHCWs) about using videos in nutrition and health programs compared to posters. In total, we recruited 42 mothers, 39 community leaders, and 30 NHCWs from villages and local organizations in two rural districts in South Benin, Bopa, and Houéyogbé. Learning sessions on Dietary diversity and Hygiene and deworming were organized using posters and videos. Participants' opinions on pros and cons of videos and posters were collected using individual semi‐structured interviews with NHCWs and focus group discussions with mothers and community leaders, then analyzed thematically. Results showed that videos were perceived as more adapted to rural communities than posters because they were in local languages, self‐explanatory, appealing, and captivating. Videos also enabled the dissemination of standardized messages. Globally, participants better‐understood messages from videos than from posters, especially when dealing with dynamic processes. However, the speed of video sequences allowed limited time for self‐reflection and assimilation of certain messages. The absence of electricity and lack of equipment to play videos in villages are also major constraints on the use of videos in such settings. While videos are innovant communication tools that should be promoted to improve motivation and compliance in learnings, they should be preferably used as complements to traditional posters for optimized assimilation of messages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Mixed‐species forests are known to be highly productive systems because of their high species diversity, including taxonomic diversity (species richness) and structural diversity. Recent empirical evidence also points to plant maximum height, as a functional trait that potentially drives forest above‐ground biomass (AGB). However, the interrelations between these biotic variables are complex, and it is not always predictable if structural diversity attributes or functional metrics of plant maximum height would act as the most important determinant of stand biomass. Here we evaluated the relative importance of structural diversity attributes and functional metrics of plant maximum height (Hmax) in predicting and mediating AGB response to variation in species richness in mixed‐species forests, while also accounting for fine‐scale environmental variation. Location: Northern Benin. Methods: We used forest inventory data from mixed‐species stands of native and exotic species. We quantified structural diversity as coefficient of variation of tree diameter at breast height (CVdbh) and of height (CVHt). For plant Hmax, we computed three metrics: functional range (FRHmax), functional divergence (FDHmax) and community‐weighted mean (CWMHmax). We used topographical variables such as elevation and slope to account for possible environmental effects. Simple and multiple mixed‐effects models, and structural equation models were performed to assess the direct and indirect links of AGB with species richness through structural diversity attributes and functional metrics of plant Hmax. Results: Species richness and CVdbh were positively related to AGB, while functional metrics of plant Hmax were not. Structural equation models revealed that species richness influenced AGB indirectly via CVdbh, which alone strongly promoted AGB. Elevation only had a positive direct effect on AGB. While increasing species richness enhanced CVdbh and functional measures of plant Hmax, there was no support for the latter mediating the effects of species richness on AGB. Conclusion: Structural diversity has a significant advantage in predicting and mediating the positive effect of species richness on AGB more so than functional measures of plant Hmax. We argue that structural diversity acts as a mechanism for the species richness–AGB relationship, and that maintaining high structural diversity would enhance biomass in mixed‐species forests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We estimated how micronutrient needs of young children, aged 6-24 months were covered by the standard (traditional) diets in Ghana and Benin, and the contributions of partial breastfeeding and national nutrition programs aimed at improving micronutrient status to overall micronutrient intakes. Estimates of micronutrient intake from standard diets were based on previous surveys, using the food composition table of West Africa (INFOOD). Recommended micronutrient intakes were based on World Health Organization recommendations. Children were grouped in three age groups (6-8, 9-12, and 13-24 months) to capture the changing dynamics of the complementary feeding period. As expected, from 6 months of age onwards, breastmilk didn't cover the micronutrient needs. The standard diets contributed only minimal to micronutrient intakes of children ranging from 0% to 37% of recommended intakes for Ca, Fe, Zn, vitamin A, vitamin D and iodine depending on the micronutrient considered. The contribution of mass (bio)- fortification programs to the coverage of micronutrient needs varied widely, depending on the staple food considered and the country, but overall did not allow to fill the gap in micronutrient needs of children except for vitamin A in some contexts. In contrast, consumption of voluntary fortified complementary food, especially formulated for the needs in this age groups, contributed substantially to overall micronutrient intake and could fill the gap for several micronutrients. The development of young child-targeted programs including micronutrient-dense foods, associated with interventions to increase the diet diversity and meal frequency, could significantly improve micronutrients intakes of children in both Ghana and Benin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Parvovirus B19 (B19V) infection in pregnancy is generally asymptomatic, but in about 3% it can cause complications, including miscarriage, severe foetal anaemia and foetal hydrops. The seroprevalence in pregnancy ranges from 20% to 82% in Africa, but there are no data for Benin. We therefore retrospectively assessed the seroprevalence of B19V in pregnant women attending the Saint Jean de Dieu Hospital in Tanguiéta, a rural district of Atacora, in northern Benin. Methods: We searched for anti‐B19V immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies in 227 sequential sera from as many women (mean age 26.3 years, range: 16–41) of whom 30 were in the first trimester, 66 in the second and 131 in the third. Samples that tested positive for IgM were analysed with an immunoblot test and the viral genome (DNA‐B19V) was searched for using a polymerase chain reaction. Results: Of the 227 women, 153 (67.4%) were positive for IgG anti‐B19V, 7 (3.1%) for IgM and 73 (32.2%) were non‐immune. Six IgM‐positive women were also IgG positive. The difference in IgG seroprevalence between trimesters or ages was not statistically significant. Of the seven IgM‐positive samples, three were confirmed positive by immunoblot (of which two were DNA‐B19V positive), three were indeterminate (DNA‐B19V negative) and one was negative (DNA‐B19V negative). Of the three women with confirmed positive IgM, two were in the third trimester and one in the second trimester of pregnancy. Conclusions: The seroprevalence of anti‐B19V IgG among pregnant women in Benin is high and in line with those reported in some African countries. IgM seroprevalence is also similar to that described in some African countries in non‐epidemic periods. The low viral load observed depicts non‐acute infections, but it is difficult to establish the precise time of the infection, especially for women tested in the second or third trimester of pregnancy, when the observed viremia could be a sign of an acute infection that occurred in the previous trimester. Consequently, clinical follow‐up and further investigations to highlight possible foetal consequences are indicated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Land use change is one of the most important determinants of carbon storage and dynamics in ecosystems. Areas in the proximity of metropoles undergo land use changes but are poorly studied for their soil and biomass carbon budget, especially in Africa. Close to Benin's economic capital, the Lama Territory located on the Allada Plateau and is subject to high demographic and urbanization pressures. Carbon (C) stocks in the region are likely to be rapidly changing. This research assessed the land use changes and quantified the spatial distribution and variation of C stocks between 2000 and 2018 on the Ferralsols of the study area. Random forest models using spectral bands of LANDSAT images and some spectral indices as predictors were calibrated to classify the land use. C stocks of four C pools (aboveground, belowground biomass, litter, and soil) were mapped with InVEST (integrated valuation of ecosystem services and tradeoffs) model. Land use change occurred in 61% of the Ferralsol area between 2000 and 2018. The surface of forests and crop‐plantation associations decreased in benefit of tree plantations, adult palm groves, and built‐up areas. With the loss of forest surface and the increasing urbanization, C stocks of the region decreased by −218 Gg C with 4% uncertainty (−175 Gg C in soil pools, and − 125 Gg C in aboveground biomass with both 6% uncertainty) between 2000 and 2018. Results highlight: (i) the need for soil C stock accounting to avoid underestimation of C stocks evolution in a rural region; and (ii) the relevance of tree plantations and deforestation control to maintain the C stocks in tropical areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Edamame has many nutritional and human health benefits and has the potential to overcome malnutrition, a common scourge among West African populations. This study aims to identify sensory preference criteria in order to select edamame varieties that meet the organoleptic needs of potential consumers in Benin. Ten soybean varieties were selected on the basis of their stability, adaptability, and yield performance in Benin. These varieties were evaluated by a hedonic test conducted with 200 untrained panelists, followed by a descriptive sensory evaluation conducted with 20 trained panelists identified and selected among the previous 2. The hedonic test used sensory attributes such as appearance, flavor, taste, and texture. The descriptive test characterized each sensory parameter using sensory descriptors such as seed size, green color, sweetness, aftertaste, starch, nuttiness, beaniness, and chewiness. The study showed significant variation in sensory attributes for most genotypes (p <.001), expressing the variation in choices made by panelists. With the exception of flavor, all other sensory parameters scored higher. Sensory preference criteria were large seed size, sweetness, moderate chewiness, and starchy texture. The genotypes AGS 466, AGS 472, and Ashorowase were the most preferred by more than 90% of the panelists. In contrast, the soybean varieties Maksoy 3N and Early Hakucho were the least preferred by less than 20% of the panelist. The grain type soybean variety S1079‐6‐7, which showed moderate acceptability for edamame consumption among consumers in Benin may be considered by breeders for improvement of sensory attributes. Practical Applications: This study revealed the sensory preference criteria of consumers in Benin for edamame. Such information is instrumental in the design of breeding programs for the crop. Also the findings of this study is useful for market segmentation. The panelists expressed high willingness to adopt edamame consumption. This is key, as it can it will inform decision of private companies, maket gardenning professionnals and ultimately can boost the edamame sector in Benin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Ticks are obligate hematophagous arthropods capable of transmitting a great variety of endemic and emerging pathogens causing diseases in animals and humans. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of Bartonella spp., Rickettsia spp., Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l.) and Anaplasma phagocytophilum in ticks collected from cattle in Benin and Togo. Methods: Overall, 396 (148 males, 205 females and 43 nymphs) ticks were collected from cattle in 17 districts (Benin and Togo) between 2019 and 2020. Ticks were pooled into groups of 2–6 ticks per pool according to individual host, location, species and developmental stage. The DNA of each pool was extracted for molecular screening. Results: PCR results revealed that 20 tick pools were positive for Bartonella spp. (Benin and Togo) and 23 tick pools positive for Rickettsia spp. (Benin), while all pools were negative for A. phagocytophilum and B. burgdorferi s.l. Sequence analysis of positive Rickettsia samples revealed the presence of Rickettsia aeschlimannii. Conclusions: The present study highlights the presence of zoonotic agents in ticks collected from cattle in Benin and Togo. This information will raise awareness of tick‐borne diseases among physicians and veterinarians, stimulate further studies to monitor these pathogens, and advise on necessary measures to control the spread of these zoonoses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Low intra‐abdominal pressure (IAP) and high perineal pressure (PP) are safe conditions for pelvic floor. This study aims to measure IAP and PP in Beninese post‐partum women during abdominal exercises and determine what exercise presents less risk for pelvic floor after delivery. Methods: IAP and PP were measured at rest and during exercises performed in random order: Cough, pelvic floor contraction (PFC), Curl‐up, diaphragmatic aspiration (DA), Drawing‐in, DA + Curl‐up and Drawing‐in+Curl‐up, using a Micro‐Full biofeedback PHENIX‐Vivaltis with dual‐channel probe. Results were presented as change from rest (maximal value during exercise minus value at rest) and expressed in percentage of this change for the reference exercise, Cough for IAP and PFC for PP. The ANOVA repeated measures test was used to compare pressures between exercises. Results: Seventeen postpartum women participated to this study. The maximal IAP and PP change were the highest (100%), respectively, during cough and PFC. During DA, IAP was the lowest (−7%) and PP was 51%. During Curl‐up, IAP was moderate (43%) and significantly higher than during PFC (33%), Drawing‐in (16%) and DA. PP was low (29%) and similar to that during Drawing‐in (23%). Compared to Curl‐up, Drawing‐in+Curl‐up increased PP (50%) but did not decrease IAP (40%). DA + Curl‐up increased PP (58%) and decreased IAP (31%) compared to Curl‐up but not compared to DA. Conclusion: DA is safe and Curl‐up presents little risk for the pelvic floor. According to interindividual variations observed in IAP and PP, intrinsic factors should be considered in future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable agriculture is essential for food security, which can sometimes be undermined by rural migration triggered by many factors, including climate change. This article aims to analyze its effects on the dynamic of rural migration. Using a database of 623 agricultural households, a multivariate probit model (MVP) was estimated. The results show that regardless of the nature of migration, variables related to climate factors positively and significantly affect decisions to move. In addition, other non-climatic variables relevant to environmental migration are cattle transhumance, which creates conflicts between herders and farmers, along with poor access to agricultural credit, agricultural and offfarm income. Gender, age, household size, accessibility to educational and health facilities in the area of origin and experience in agricultural production must be considered. Emphasis should be placed on agricultural policies aimed at diversifying the income sources of rural households in developing countries. The study highlights the importance of both farm and non-farm income in controlling migration. In the case of our study area, it is the combination of livestock and agriculture that seems to respond best. Producers are encouraged to diversify crops and, during periods of climatic disruption, the priority of households should be based on the production of food crops for subsistence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyzes the extent to which shocks affect household education expenditures and the determinants of shock‐coping strategies in Benin, using the 2017 Comprehensive Food Security and Vulnerability Analysis survey data (14,300 households). The findings indicate that late‐onset/droughts, heavy rainfall/floods, and joblessness of a household member/reduction in income increase the likelihood to spend on education. Moreover, the occurrence of droughts/late onsets and floods/heavy rainfall lead to an increase and a decrease in education expenditures, respectively. Both idiosyncratic and covariate shocks force households to rely on shock‐coping strategies, with the effects of the latter (climate shocks) being among the highest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Time use, or how women and men allocate their time, is an important element of empowerment processes. To extend this area of study, this article proposes and explores the concept of time‐use agency, which shifts the focus from the amount of time individuals spend on activities to the strategic choices they make about how to allocate their time. It draws on 92 semi‐structured interviews from three qualitative studies in Benin, Malawi and Nigeria to explore and compare the salience of time‐use agency as a component of empowerment. The article finds that time‐use agency is salient among women and men and dictates how they can make and act upon strategic decisions related to how they allocate their time. It also finds that time‐use agency is tied to other dimensions of agency beyond decision making and ways of exerting influence in the household. Its findings highlight that women's capacity to exercise time‐use agency is conditional on gendered power dynamics and other barriers within households, which together are reciprocally related to local gender norms that dictate how women should spend their time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of information as an extrinsic quality cue on consumers' valuation of intrinsic food quality attributes can be captured by incorporating 'information treatments' in experimental auctions. We combine 'exogenous' information treatments (a video broadcast and a radio transcript) on the benefits of a locally produced improved rice processing technology with an 'endogenous' information treatment which elicits word‐of‐mouth exchange among consumers. We assess the effects of these information treatments on consumers' choice and valuation of parboiled rice with upgraded quality in two urban markets in Benin. We find that exogenous information increases market share of the locally produced improved product by 14% at the expense of the competing, imported product, an effect which is further amplified by 11% through endogenous information. Endogenous information has a dampening effect on price premiums though; while visual and auditory information added 6–14% value to local rice, word‐of‐mouth reduced the value by 2%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of psychoactive substances is constantly increasing, particularly among young people. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence, associated factors and the level of dependence of those substances among secondary school students in Benin. This cross‐sectional study included 627 students in grades 8–12, selected using a multi‐stage sampling technique. Data were collected using the ASSIST questionnaire, followed by urine screening. Logistic regression analysis was performed to estimate factors associated with substance use. Overall, the lifetime prevalence of psychoactive substance use was 95.4% (95% CI = 93.4–96.9), while the current use was 78.8% (95% CI = 75.3–81.9). The most commonly used substances in the past 3 months were alcohol, followed by stimulants and tobacco; 221 samples were analysed. Twenty‐two (9.95%) were positive by urine screening. Substances detected were tramadol, fentanyl, THC, K2, BZDs, alcohol, methamphetamine and cotinine. Of the current users, 2.27% (n = 11) were at high risk of dependency. An association was found between substance use and age (p = 0.02). In conclusion, this study came up with a high prevalence of substance use among students. There is a need to develop and implement a health education programme in secondary schools to raise awareness of the potential risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies examining the role of abiotic variables on fructification sequences of ectomycorrhizal symbionts (boletes), the extent and direction of these effects are quite rare in Africa. In the current study, we assessed the effects of microclimate on the distribution and productivity of boletes in Benin. Nine permanent plots of 2500 m2 each split into 25 subplots of 100 m2 were installed in three different vegetation types. The first vegetation type is dominated by Isoberlinia doka, the second by Isoberlinia tomentosa and the third by Uapaca togoensis. Abiotic variables, including soil temperature, air temperature, air relative humidity and soil moisture, were recorded every 30 min from June to October. Each plot was surveyed twice a week during the mushroom season over 3 years (2015, 2016 and 2017) to record the abundance and the fresh biomass. The effects of microclimate on boletes productivity were evaluated using generalised linear mixed models in R. Boletes give the largest natural production in July and the lowest in October. Only soil moisture has a significant negative influence on the abundance (p > 0.05). The fruiting periods of boletes are known according to the variability of the microclimatic parameters and the vegetation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ricinodendron heudelotii, Vitex doniana, and Cleome gynandra are three indigenous species of Benin/West Africa. This review focuses on the physicochemical characteristics of their seeds and the nutritional and functional properties of their oils. In this systematic review, scientific articles and reports were used to collect information. The minima, maxima, and mean values were considered and converted into a dry basis and/or the same units by using the international system of units when needed to allow comparison. Seeds of Ricinodendron, Vitex and Cleome fat contents were 51.83 g/100 g dw, 28.55 g/100 g dw and 27.35 g/100 g dw, respectively. The three seed oils contained 58.54% to 87% mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Ricinodendron seed oil contained a conjugated polyunsaturated fatty acid α‐eleostearic acid (49.3%–51.1%). Data varied from one author to another due to the methods used. R. heudelotii seeds oil is traditionally used for the treatment of several diseases. Its oil showed phytochemical and antimicrobial properties suggesting its possible use in pharmaceutical industries. Ricinodendron and Vitex seed oil should not be used for cooking at high temperatures or frying because of their high and medium levels of unsaturation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the implementation of the Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response (MPDSR) strategy institutionalized in Benin in 2013 to address the alarmingly high maternal and neonatal death rates. Methods: A retrospective, mixed-methods study was performed. We used all maternal and neonatal death notifications and reviews from 2016 to 2018, reviewed the reports of 63 MPDSR working groups, and held two online group discussions. Descriptive quantitative analysis was performed, and content analysis was applied to qualitative data. Results: Deaths were under-notified, with estimated notification rates at 46%–48% for maternal and 16%–21% for neonatal deaths over the 3 years. Review completion rates were low, corresponding to 50%–56% of maternal and 8%–17% of neonatal deaths. Causes of under-notification included very low notification of community-based and private health facility deaths, and fear of blame. Low review completion rates were due to heavy workload, staffing shortages, fear of blame, and weak leadership. Moreover, reviews were of poor quality and the response was weak. Conclusion: Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response is operational in Benin. However, this assessment highlights the need to strengthen the notification strategy, continuously build MPDSR committee members’ capacities, engage decision-makers for an effective response, and create a better blame-free, accountable, and learning culture [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examine if having legal documentation of one's property rights reduces women's tolerance of intimate partner violence (IPV) in eight countries in Sub‐Saharan Africa. Whilst property titling may have numerous benefits, decreased justification of IPV does not appear to consistently be one of those benefits. Results indicate that out of eight countries examined, only in Ethiopia and Benin did inclusion of women's names on property titles reduce acceptance of IPV. Our findings reinforce the notion that context matters. Whilst in some countries, policies that promote titling may have positive spillover effects, in other contexts, property titling simply is not enough to counter traditional beliefs that IPV is socially acceptable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Illegal hunting of wildlife is one of the major issues in tropical ecosystems, especially when it occurs in highly degraded habitats with forest cover fragmentation. In this study, we assessed the impact of bushmeat hunting in a large forest patch (the Lama Natural Forest; LNF) and 11 nearby forest islands, using Traditional Ecological Knowledge from 240 interviewees across 16 villages. Thirty‐five species belonging to nine orders of mammals, birds and reptiles were mentioned by local communities. Rodentia were significantly more observed in the forest islands, whereas medium‐sized mammals belonging to Carnivora, Primates, Artiodactyla, Pholidota and Hyracoida were found predominantly in LNF. Approximately 57% of the species were reported to be rare in the forest islands, whereas c. 77% were listed as abundant in LNF, confirming the role of LNF as a refuge for forest species targeted by the bushmeat trade. Generalised linear models indicated that species sighting frequencies were positively correlated with perimeters of forest patches. We found hunting pressure to be greater in forest islands in the vicinity of LNF than those further away. Our results suggest that long‐term conservation of wildlife in southern Benin may require a 'mainland‐islands' approach including both LNF and its surrounding forest islands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Niger's military rulers have confirmed that rebels sabotaged an oil pipeline carrying crude oil to Benin. The rebel group, the Patriotic Liberation Front (FPL), claimed responsibility for the attack, which was carried out on June 16th. The pipeline, which is vital to the economies of both countries, has become a source of tension between Niger and Benin. In addition to this incident, Niger has accused Benin of kidnapping five of its nationals, who were arrested at the Seme port. The two countries have not yet reached a long-term solution regarding the loading of Nigerien oil at the port. [Extracted from the article]

Tensions between Benin and Niger have escalated due to the closure of their shared border. In February, Benin reopened its side of the border after ECOWAS lifted sanctions on Niger's military rulers, but the border remained officially closed on the Niger side. However, Benin recently closed the border on its side and prohibited the transport of goods across the Niger River. This closure has impacted trade between the two countries, causing significant financial losses for Benin. The dispute over oil exports was resolved with mediation from China, but trade relations have still not been re-established. Additionally, Benin arrested five senior Niger officials who were touring a port facility in Cotonou, further escalating tensions. Despite this, Benin and Brazil have signed agreements to enhance cooperation in various sectors. [Extracted from the article]

Benin has blocked oil exports from Niger through a pipeline that connects the two countries. This action is in response to Niger's continued closure of its border with Benin, despite the lifting of sanctions by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The pipeline, developed by a consortium of Chinese companies, was expected to carry 90,000 barrels of oil per day to an export terminal in Benin. Beninese President Patrice Talon has demanded that Niger collaborate and reopen their side of the border if they want Benin to allow ships to load Nigerien crude exports at its Seme port. [Extracted from the article]

The African weaver ant Oecophylla longinoda builds woven leaf nests inside tree canopies and is a major conservation biocontrol agent in sub‐Saharan Africa. Weaver ant colonies provide well‐protected and resource‐rich environments for many associated trophobionts, thereby boosting their establishment on host plants.There is very little published literature on O. longinoda, their hosts plants and their associated trophobionts in West Africa. These tri‐trophic interactions were studied over a period of four consecutive years (2010–2013) from south to north Benin.Our fieldwork revealed that all O. longinoda colonies were consistently associated with trophobionts. Oecophylla longinoda nests were recorded on 82 plant species belonging to 30 families, with 35 associated trophobiont species representing 11 families.Among cultivated plants, Mangifera indica was the most common species hosting O. longinoda, while Sarcocephalus latifolius the most frequent native one. Among trophobionts, Parasaissetia nigra, Udinia catori, Udinia farquharsoni (Coccidae) and Stictococcus sjostedti (Stictococcidae) were the most common hemipterans associated with O. longinoda.We identified a wide range of host plants that could be preserved (or planted) to promote the establishment of weaver ants to control different insect pests in fruit plantations in sub‐Saharan Africa. When planted around fruit plantations with their nests and tended hemipterans, these host plants could facilitate biocontrol of mango fruit flies (Tephritidae) and cashew bugs (Coreidae, Miridae), by O. longinoda in the fruit plantations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]