Abstract

Underutilized multipurpose tree species play important roles in rural livelihoods and biodiversity conservation in West Africa, yet knowledge on their management and conservation remains limited. This study assessed the local knowledge and conservation strategies associated with Cordia myxa in the South-West region of Burkina Faso. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 367 informants from five ethnic groups across eight localities. The relative frequency of citation (RF), ethnobotanical use value (UV), index value related to useful organs (IVO), Shannon diversity index (ID), equitability index (IE), and consensus use value (Cs) were estimated. Chi-square tests and factorial correspondence analysis were used to assess relationships between socio-demographic factors, ethnic groups, and conservation strategies. In total, 35 use forms grouped into six use categories were recorded, including several uses not previously documented in Burkina Faso. The species was mainly used for handicraft (92.64%), energy (75.20%), medicine (72.21%), and food (70.03%). Seven plant organs were identified, among which leaves, fruits, and bark showed the highest IVO. The UV varied significantly by age category and ethnic group (p < 0.05), with elderly respondents and Birifor communities exhibiting the highest UV values. The overall ID = 5.76 and IE = 0.97 indicated high use diversity and homogeneous distribution of knowledge among respondents. Local communities conserved Cordia myxa through protection from cutting, assisted natural regeneration, fire protection, and heritage-based conservation. Integrating Cordia myxa into participatory domestication, agroforestry restoration, and community-based conservation programs can enhance sus tainable management and the development of efficient conservation plans.