30 July 2025. The Society for Underutilized Legumes (SUL) organised its 26th Academic Lecture Series with theme: Enhancing Bambara Groundnut Production Through Improved Agronomic Practices
As part of the mandates of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR), centers like the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA)—particularly through its Genetic Resources Center focuses on agricultural innovations aimed at addressing food and nutrition insecurity. One such innovation involves the promotion of Bambara groundnut, an indigenous African legume recognized for its nutritional value and resilience. Its potential to enhance food systems is especially relevant in regions grappling with drought, poor soils, and persistent poverty.
The Society for Underutilized Legumes, in its bid to support the activities of CGIAR-IITA, advocates for the inclusion of Bambara groundnut as one of the opportunity crops for global promotion and utilization, recognizing its potential to contribute to sustainable agriculture, nutrition, and climate resilience. The overall goal is to gain a better understanding of how Bambara groundnut can be utilized to achieve the desired support for both human and animal health, while also considering its impact on a sustainable environment in Africa and across the globe.
Dr Benjamin Faloye, Field Bank Manager will lead a six months capacity development on Bambara groundnut starting from July till December 2025 with support of Prof Michael Abberton, Head, Genetic Resources Center, IITA.
See his presentation below.
Background:
The Society for Underutilized Legumes (SUL) is a collaborative initiative dedicated to promoting the research, development, and utilization of legume species that are traditionally neglected or underexploited in mainstream agriculture. These legumes, often rich in nutrients and resilient to harsh environmental conditions, hold significant potential for improving food and nutrition security, particularly in regions facing the challenges of climate change and malnutrition. The society brings together researchers, development practitioners, policymakers, and other stakeholders to raise awareness about the value of underutilized legumes and integrate them into sustainable food systems.
SUL's activities include supporting scientific research on the agronomic, nutritional, and economic potential of underutilized legumes such as bambara groundnut, African yam bean, and pigeon pea. It organizes workshops, training programs, and conferences to disseminate knowledge and best practices. The society also facilitates the development of value chains by connecting smallholder farmers to markets, promoting seed systems, and advocating for policy changes that support the conservation and use of legume biodiversity. Additionally, SUL collaborates with regional and international partners to promote these crops as solutions for food diversification, soil health, and resilience in marginal environments.
See also:
6 March 2025. SDGs on Health, Nutrition & Poverty: Hidden Treasures in Neglected Tropical Legumes
Dr. Adegboyega Taofeek Tope SUL President on AfriScience Network Webinar #24
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