Scoring methods were applied to produce initial priorities. These initial results were validated at a nationwide stakeholder meeting. Benin is a small West African country bordering Nigeria, Togo, Burkina Faso and Niger. Its per capita income is USD 370. Its population of 5 million depends mainly on agriculture and trade with the Sahelian countries and Nigeria.
Agricultural conditions vary markedly from the south to the north.
In the south, where population density exceeds 200 persons per km2, rainfall conditions allow two crops per year. However, over-exploitation of agricultural resources threatens productivity there. In the north, where population density is less than 20 per km2, climatic conditions resemble those of the Sahel, with only one rainy season per year and greater chances of drought. Maize, cassava and yams are the staple foods. Cotton is the principal export crop.