THE CONTRIBUTION OF MARULA (SCLEROCARYA BIRREA) FRUIT AND FRUIT PRODUCTS TO RURAL LIVELIHOODS IN THE BUSHBUCKRIDGE DISTRICT, SOUTH AFRICA: BALANCING DOMESTIC NEEDS AND COMMERCIALISATION

ABSTRACT

Sclerocarya birrea (marula) fruit is widely used by rural communities throughout sub-Saharan Africa. Its versatility and unique properties mean that increasing attention is being directed to the prospects for its commercialisation. However, there is a paucity of data quantifying:

	• its domestic use and existing role in meeting livelihood requirements, and
	• the financial benefits commercialisation may bring to participating households.

Without such data, it is difficult to weigh-up the potential trade-offs between commercialisation and the age-old subsistence use and socio-cultural value of this species.

This study quantifies the use and value of marula in 142 households supplying fruit and/or kernels to two commercial enterprises in Bushbuckridge, South Africa. Large quantities of marula fruits are collected each season, mainly to make beer but also to consume fresh, and process into juice and/or jam. The beer is shared with neighbours, helping to build and maintain social networks. Kernels are widely eaten as a snack or mixed with wild spinaches and served with maize meal. One third to one half of households sell fruit and kernels, and 13% sell beer. Earnings are modest (R38—R941 per season), but form an important cash injection at a crucial time in the household calendar. At present, domestic use exceeds commercial use. The potential for future competition between these different demands is discussed.

Key words:

• commercialisation
• cultural values
• NTFPs
• rural livelihoods
• subsistence use