Socio-economic constraints and market dynamics in bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) production in Kasungu District, Malawi

Abstract

Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) is a climate-resilient and nutritionally valuable legume with strong potential to support sustainable agricultural diversification in sub-Saharan Africa. Despite these attributes, its production in Malawi remains low and largely subsistence-oriented. This study examines the socio-economic constraints and market dynamics shaping Bambara groundnut production in Kasungu District, Malawi. A convergent mixed-methods design was employed, combining quantitative data from a survey of 56 farmers with qualitative insights from focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Descriptive statistics, multiple linear regression, and thematic analysis were used to analyse the data. The findings reveal a production system dominated by informal seed systems, limited market access, and weak institutional support. Approximately 85.8% of farmers relied on recycled or locally sourced seeds, while 75% lacked access to transport for market participation, reinforcing localized and low-value exchange systems. Regression results indicate that cultural preference is the only statistically significant predictor of production (β = 0.329, p < 0.05), suggesting that production decisions are driven more by socio-cultural factors than economic incentives. Other variables, including access to credit, extension services, and markets, were not statistically significant, reflecting structural constraints and institutional inefficiencies. The study highlights a disconnect between the crop’s agronomic potential and the socio-economic conditions under which it is produced. Enhancing production and commercialization requires addressing market failures, strengthening seed systems, and improving institutional support. Integrating Bambara groundnut into national agricultural and climate resilience strategies could unlock its potential as a sustainable and economically viable crop.