Economic Potential and Value Chain of Wild Edible Mushrooms and Cultivated Mushrooms from the Virunga National Park and Surrounding Area in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Cultivated mushrooms (CM) offer significantly higher economic returns compared to wild edible mushrooms (WEM) in the Virunga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo. A study found that a CM grower can earn up to $1506 annually by selling 502 kg, while pickers and sellers earn considerably less despite lower production volumes. This suggests that domestication of WEM could substantially boost household incomes in the region. The research employed a digital questionnaire and direct observations across four value chains (Goma-Kitshanga-Mweso, Goma-Rutshuru, Beni-Mutwanga, and Beni-Mangina), analyzing sales data from 432 respondents to assess economic potential and value chain dynamics.

Habineza Mpunga, J. P., Niyonsaba Sebigunda, E., Shalukoma, C., Lebailly, P., Berti, F., Dushimimana, C., Muhashy Habiyaremye, F., Burny, P., & Michel, B. (2025). Economic Potential and Value Chain of Wild Edible Mushrooms and Cultivated Mushrooms from the Virunga National Park and Surrounding Area in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Agricultural Sciences, 16(01), 48–67. https://doi.org/10.4236/as.2025.161004