Bambara groundnuts [Vigna subterranea (L.)Verdc] Production Systems in Kavango East Region, Northern Namibia

Abstract

Background: The productivity of Bambara groundnut [Vigna subterranea (L.) Verdc] is gradually decreasing in subsistence farming systems due to various factors, including climate-related issues, socioeconomic limitations and farming practices. This study aimed to identify the reasons for this decrease by examining factors like farming methods, seed color preferences, input quantities and production constraints. Methods: A participatory rural appraisal study was conducted in the Mukwe and Ndiyona constituencies. Four villages per constituency were selected for the study. A structured questionnaire was employed to collect data on demographics, Bambara groundnut farming practices (including farm size, yield, uses and seed preferences), farming inputs and production constraints. Result: The study found that most farmers (77.8%) allocated less than one hectare of land annually for Bambara groundnut cultivation. Around 66.7% of farmers reported low yields, typically between 1 and 100 kg per season. Most farmers (85.7%) grew Bambara groundnuts primarily for household consumption, with only 14.3% focusing on income generation. Cream-seeded Bambara groundnuts were the preferred choice among farmers due to their early maturation, high yield potential and ease of preparation. The main production challenges identified in the region included field pests, low yields, lack of improved varieties, expensive labor and high seed costs. To address these issues, the study recommended breeding for improved varieties and using inoculants to increase crop output. These approaches aim to boost yields and provide nitrogen enrichment for subsequent crops.