Kersting’s groundnut [Macrotyloma geocarpum (Harms) Maréchal & Baudet]: A versatile & underutilized grain legume for subhumid zones

Legume crops, with their high protein contents and ability to improve soil fertility, have great potential to contribute toward food security in Africa. Orphan crops have greater potential because of their resilience and contribution to food diversification. Kersting’s groundnut is an orphan legume crop which area of distribution is limited to West Africa. Beside the high protein content, Kersting’s groundnut has appreciable levels of essential minerals and vitamins. This added to its palatability and physical appearance of dishes prepared out of its grains, gives to the crop a high market value. However, its cultivation is hindered by numerous challenges and the trend of its cultivation is downward. Wide adoption of adequate agronomic practices while growing Kersting’s groundnut would make a step forward to enhanced production and productivity. Such adoption can only be fostered when awareness is sufficiently created, with supporting and guide documents availed. The purpose of this production guide is to avail tested tools, create awareness of best agronomic practices that promote productivity and discuss relevant options and challenges that are associated with the production of Kersting’s groundnut. It is a compilation of field experiences and information gathered through surveys and literature. It is a well-illustrated toolbox for farmers, researchers and else who might want to engage in Kersting’s groundnut production. I wish you a fruitful use of this toolbox