Farmer production practices, utilization, seed conservation, and constraints of Bambara groundnut in Northern Malawi

Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) continues to face persistent food insecurity and malnutrition, exacerbated by climate variability and an overreliance on a few climate-sensitive staple crops. Diversification into climate-smart and nutrient-dense crops such as Bambara groundnut [ Vigna subterranea (L.) Verdc.] could significantly enhance food and nutrition security in SSA. Nevertheless, Bambara groundnut remains marginalized and under-researched in Malawi despite its nutrient-rich profile. This study assessed the production practices, utilization patterns, seed conservation, and constraints of Bambara groundnut among smallholder farmers in Rumphi and Mzimba Districts, Malawi. A multistage sampling approach was employed to select 195 respondents, and data were collected using a focus group discussion guide and semi-structured questionnaires. Qualitative data were thematically analysed, while quantitative analysis involved descriptive and chi-square analyses. Twelve Bambara groundnut landraces were identified, with farm-saved seeds as the primary source of cultivation (79%) under low-input systems without the use of fertilizers. The crop is predominantly grown as a monocrop (92%), mainly for household food security (61%), post-harvest handling is largely manual, and informal trading systems (91%) dominate its marketing. Farmer-led seed conservation practices, such as the use of ash and airtight clay pots, were the principal storage strategies. However, the choice of conservation techniques varied significantly with location and market access (p < 0.05). Limited access to markets and improved seeds were the main constraints. Collectively, these findings underscore the importance of Bambara groundnut as a climate-resilient and culturally significant food crop, providing important baseline insights for targeted production, value-chain development and sustainable utilization.