Abstract            Volume:14  Issue-8  Year-2026         Original Research Articles

Online ISSN : 2347 - 3215 Issues : 12 per year Publisher : Excellent Publishers Email : editorijcret@gmail.com

This study compared the technical and economic performance of four shea butter processing systems used in Northern Benin. Primary data were collected from 140 women processors across three major shea parklands. Technical performance was assessed using the annual quantity of shea kernels processed, while economic performance was evaluated using gross revenue, net income, benefit-cost ratio, return on total cost, and labor productivity. Differences among systems were examined using analysis of variance. The Grinder–Mill–Churner–Roaster system recorded the highest processing capacity (2,312.26 kg/year), net income (241,644 FCFA/year), benefit-cost ratio (1.54), return on total cost (54.44%), and labor productivity (1,875.67 FCFA/person-day). The traditional system recorded the lowest performance. The findings indicate that progressive integration of semi-mechanized equipment can improve processing capacity, profitability, and the economic valuation of women’s labor. Policy support should therefore combine access to appropriate equipment and finance with training, maintenance services, and organizational support.

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