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Introduction

“non-timber forest Products”(ntfPs) refers to a wide range of goods, which are common sights in households and markets across the Congo Basin. The paradox of these products, as in other tropical forests worldwide, is that despite their importance and everyday use, comprehensive knowledge on their ecology and socio-economic value is largely lacking, hindering the ability to monitor, regulate and manage them. The value chains of these products (see box 7.1) are mainly informal and remain uncaptured in statistics and policy across all Central African states. Their contribution to livelihoods and national economies is thus difficult to evaluate. Policies for sustainable economic development based on their trade and consumption are consequently largely absent. however, data from across the region has been gathered which demonstrates the multi-faceted value of ntfPs. By clearly defining, and then …