Entrepreneurship pathways for scaling legume-based agroecological intensification in Eastern and Southern Africa. A review

Entrepreneurship-driven scaling of legume-based agroecological intensification presents an opportunity to enhance the livelihoods of marginalised groups – particularly women, youth, and the rural poor – while fostering sustainable economic development across Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA). This review addresses three research questions: (i) What are the pathways to scale legume-based entrepreneurship that could support agroecological intensification, drawing from agri-food system projects in ESA? (ii) What frameworks can guide the effective scaling of such legume-based entrepreneurship? (iii) What are the key barriers and enabling factors to legume-based entrepreneurship in legume-producing countries? We synthesised insights using an innovation systems lens, entrepreneurship ecosystem frameworks, and value chain development approaches. Five primary scaling pathways emerged from our analysis, namely: (1) contract farming; (2) leasing-based business models; (3) mobilisation of public and private financing; (4) support for seed systems and local enterprises; and (5) application of private equity to expand high-potential legume-based startups and SMEs. Additional opportunities included expanding export-oriented value chains. Critical enablers across all of these pathways include entrepreneurship-friendly policy environments, ICT integration, access to finance, and business development services. The pathways are embedded within a proposed scaling framework that embraces a food systems perspective and emphasises the synergy between production and market development. To accelerate legume-enterprise derived impacts, policymakers should adopt a more integrated approach that addresses: reforming regulatory frameworks, incentivising private-sector engagement, aligning seed system policies, improving rural infrastructure, enhancing export capabilities, and increasing investments in agricultural research-for-development. Graphical Abstract: Pathways for scaling legume-based entrepreneurship in Eastern and Southern Africa. The integrative framework highlights socio-economic outcomes, implementation pathways, and multistakeholder collaboration, underpinned by enabling factors. Arrows denote iterative feedback between production, market development, and policy support. • Legumes scaling business models include contract farming, leasing, and SME investment. • Financing, private equity and contracts can drive legume production and market growth. • Digital tools and enabling policies can catalyse legume enterprise success. • Export value chains unlock new revenue streams for legume producers. • Strategic public investments in infrastructure and R&D maximize legume scaling potential.