Socio-cultural endemicity in promoting horticultural crop production: A special case from Bomberai ethnic group, West Papua

Abstract

Horticulture plays a vital role in strengthening food security and rural livelihoods, particularly in regions with rich sociocultural endemism such as West Papua. This study examines the horticultural production performance of the Bomberai ethnic group, focusing on twelve key vegetables including leek, spinach, beans, chili, long beans, water spinach, cucumber, chayote, mustard greens, watermelon, eggplant, and tomato. Descriptive statistical analysis was applied to production data, highlighting wide variations in yield levels, consistency, and productivity. Results indicate that beans (mean 20.83 quintals, SD 13.01) and bird’s eye chili (mean 5.62 quintals, SD 5.62) demonstrate relatively stable production, while cucumber and tomato production remain extremely low with high variability. Leafy vegetables such as spinach and mustard greens show inconsistent outputs, suggesting challenges in cultivation management and ecological adaptability. The findings emphasize that production disparities are strongly influenced by local farming practices, cultural values, and environmental conditions unique to the Bomberai community. Despite considerable potential, horticultural production remains constrained by limited access to inputs, poor infrastructure, and low market integration. This study concludes that strengthening traditional ecological knowledge with modern agronomic practices could improve stability and productivity. Recommendations include organising farmer training, improving seed and input supply chains, and enhancing market connectivity to support local farmers. By leveraging socio-cultural endemism, horticultural production in West Papua could contribute more effectively to regional food security and rural economic development. Strategic crop diversification and market development areessential for sustainable production growth.