Marketing Strategies and Production Profitability of Charcoal in the Rural Zone of Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo

The low efficiency of carbonization limits charcoal producers' income and exacerbates deforestation in the Miombo woodlands. This study analyzes the marketing strategies of charcoal produced in the rural area of Lubumbashi and assesses its profitability. A survey was conducted among 20 professional charcoal producers from the villages of Maksem, Sela, Luisha, and Mwawa, covering both production and marketing aspects. Results indicate that charcoal is predominantly sold in villages (55%), followed by Lubumbashi (35%) and directly in the forest (10%). Profitability analysis reveals generally positive profits. The 57 kg bag demonstrates higher profitability, particularly in Lubumbashi, where it generates a profit of 277,156.00 CDF (~135.19 USD) and a benefit-cost ratio of 1.52 during the dry season, while in the rainy season, these values rise to 1,491,699.70 CDF (~727.66 USD) and 2.41, respectively. Conversely, the 29 kg package results in financial losses, especially during the rainy season (-15,804.27 CDF~ -7,71 USD). These findings highlight the influence of the point of sale, packaging size, and season on charcoal profitability. Standardizing packaging and implementing pricing per kilogram are recommended to enhance profitability and conserve forest resources.