The Contribution of Chikanda Orchids to Rural Livelihoods: Insights from Mwinilunga District of Northwestern Zambia

Jane Musole Kwenye (), Gillian Kabwe, Peter Mulenga and Mwazvita Tapiwa Beatrice Dalu ()
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Jane Musole Kwenye: School of Natural Resource, Copperbelt University, Kitwe 10101, Zambia
Gillian Kabwe: School of Natural Resource, Copperbelt University, Kitwe 10101, Zambia
Peter Mulenga: School of Humanities, Copperbelt University, Kitwe 10101, Zambia
Mwazvita Tapiwa Beatrice Dalu: School of Biology and Environmental Sciences, University of Mpumalanga, Mbombela 1200, South Africa

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 13, 1-17

Abstract: Studies examining the role of chikanda orchids in bolstering rural livelihoods coupled with the associated socio-economic intricacies remain absent, especially in African settings. This study examined the contribution of chikanda orchids in supporting rural livelihoods, taking into account socio-economic influences through a case study of the Mwinilunga District of northwestern Zambia. The study employed a mixed methods approach using 303 semi-structured questionnaires, complemented by three focus group discussions and nine in-depth interviews. Study findings showed that revenue generated from chikanda orchid sales supported rural livelihoods and served a crucial function in addressing food scarcity challenges. Income derived from chikanda orchid sales accounted for 30.8% of total household income and exhibited an income equalization effect of 8% among households. Participation in harvesting chikanda orchids exhibited a significant correlation with gender (χ 2 = 6; p < 0.05) and marital status (χ 2 = 8; p < 0.05). This study showed the significance of chikanda orchids in supporting livelihoods, including socio-economic influences, particularly for poorer households that exhibit vulnerability to food deficits. Consequently, the need to develop effective chikanda orchid management strategies that are locally tailored and acknowledge the socio-economic intricacies associated with the chikanda orchids trade is fundamental.

Keywords: chikanda orchids; non-timber forest products; wild edible plants; rural livelihoods; socio-economic factors (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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