2.2.1 Collection systems

The commercialisation of neem products requires an effective and reliable collection system for neem seeds, which does not exist in most countries. It turns out that reliable collection and preparation of neem kernels of good quality for a reasonable price is one of highest hurdles in setting up neem processing in developing countries. On the one hand, in participatory training communities have to be persuaded to collect neem seeds during the one or two local harvesting seasons and to accept neem as an additional cash crop; on the other hand there has to be a commitment on the part of the entrepreneurs to buy a certain amount of the collected seeds frequently, even if they cannot process them all due to marketing problems. Moreover, the kernels may be of inferior quality in the early stages or due to extraordinary weather conditions, e.g. contaminated with fungi (Aspergillus spp.). The entrepreneurs, however, should keep the collectors motivated by continuing to buy at least some of the seeds. It is helpful to intensify the training and pay a premium for better quality.