Socio-Cultural Value and Marketing Chain of Edible Land Snails (Stylommatophora, Achatinidae) along the Kisangani–Ituri Road Axis (DR Congo)

Mwamini Léonie Irène; Lifoli Bofate Noella; Mukirania Kahandi Corneille; Fuka Mosengo Laurent; Kapita Ligili Bienvenu; Kosele Kada Jonathan; Mupeka’s Tunave Héritier; Kakule Kambere Prosper; Anzagege Kyana Petrochine; Apay Adoru Clémentine; Kebolo Baku na Ngonda André; Kakelengwa Mbilizi Billy; Gambalemoke Mbalitini Sylvestre

Mwamini Léonie Irène
Lifoli Bofate Noella
Mukirania Kahandi Corneille
Fuka Mosengo Laurent
Kapita Ligili Bienvenu
Kosele Kada Jonathan
Mupeka’s Tunave Héritier
Kakule Kambere Prosper
Anzagege Kyana Petrochine
Apay Adoru Clémentine
Kebolo Baku na Ngonda André
Kakelengwa Mbilizi Billy
Gambalemoke Mbalitini Sylvestre

Keywords: Land snail, Achatina, marketing, culture, Kisangani

Abstract

The socio-cultural value and marketing chain of edible land snails analyzes the dietary, cultural, and economic importance of land snails in Tshopo Province. The study was conducted along the Kisangani–Ituri road axis, specifically in the villages of Bandibu, Basokwambula, Babunjango, and Bafwaboli. Data were collected between April and June 2025 from 60 stakeholders (collectors, vendors, and consumers) using semi-structured questionnaires and direct observations.

The results show that 90% of respondents regularly consume snails, mainly of the genus Achatina, and that 95% are marketed fresh. Snails play a major role in food consumption, traditional pharmacopoeia, and ritual practices, with customary taboos varying among tribes (Lokele, Turumbu, Ngando, Rumbi, Mbole, and Topoke). Marketing is largely based on short supply chains, although longer circuits supply the urban market of Kisangani, generating higher incomes.

Edible land snails constitute an important resource for food security and local incomes. Their sustainable management requires an integrated approach that takes into account cultural, economic, and environmental dimensions.

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