A quantitative modelling of farm households’ choices for improved sorghum variety profiles in sustainability and economic affordability-based attributes in Mali

The adoption rate of improved sorghum varieties remains low in sub-Saharan Africa, including Mali. This raises concerns about whether these varieties adequately address farmers' needs. To better understand farmer preferences and align breeding programmes with participatory breeding objectives, this study employed a discrete choice experiment (DCE) to investigate farmer preferences for improved sorghum varietal attributes in Mali. The study objectives were to identify preferred attributes and estimate farmers’ willingness to pay (WTP) for these attributes. The analysis was based on a final sample of 5,616 observations. A D z -efficient experimental design was used, and choice data were analysed using two models: the Conditional Logit (CL) and the Random Parameter Logit (RPL). Key findings indicated that sorghum farmers preferred varieties offering a grain yield of 3,500 kg/ha, drought tolerance extending 20 days into the maturity stage, grain storage capacity of 10 months, and benefits linked to membership in Farmer-Based Organizations (FBOs). Conversely, farmers showed a negative preference for a higher seed cost of 750 FCFA/kg (1.18 USD/kg). Farmers also revealed a higher WTP for higher yield, extended drought tolerance, longer storage capacity, and FBO membership. The study recommends that sorghum breeding programmes in Mali should exercise caution in seed pricing, as farmers are sensitive to higher costs. To promote sustainable adoption and intensification, future varietal development should prioritize higher grain yield, improved drought tolerance, longer grain storage capacity, and social networking benefits. The integration of these attributes would be essential for scaling improved and climate-resilient sorghum varieties in Mali. • Improved and climate-resilient sorghum varieties are better climate adaptative and friendly cereal crops in Mali and the widened sub-Saharan Africa. • Embedding farm households’ needs is highly relevant at early stage of new varietal development for participatory plant breeding enhancement. • Sustainability, climate-resilience, and economic affordability attributes are highly relevant for sustainable adoption of new agricultural technologies. • Quantitative choices modelling using a novel and accurate data collection tool like the “DCEtool” might better uncover farm households’ new varietal preferences.