Impact of collective action on household welfare: Empirical evidence from baobab collectors in Malawi

Empirical studies show that smallholder farmers can benefit from collective action by improving their crop production and access to better markets. Although there are numerous on the effects of marketing staple crops, such studies, particularly analysis gender action, scarce for underutilized crops as baobab. To address this gap, we estimate impacts cooperative membership baobab income food security, using data collected a survey 864 collectors in Malawi. We employ Inverse Probability Weight Regression Adjustment estimator account selection bias. also analyse heterogeneity impact cooperatives attributable gender. find increases income, household dietary diversity score, consumption score 3.57%, 11%, 5.6%, respectively. However, welfare outcome members differs based In particular, households with male managers have higher more secure. Households unmarried female outcomes. The results, therefore, highlight need promote through sector enhance welfare.