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Comparative analysis of five African traditional multipurpose crops using a food systems approach

Abstract

Diversifying food systems with traditional multi-purpose crops like sorghum, cassava, and amaranth is key to improving food security and nutrition. However, studies focusing on a variety of nutrient-dense crops, addressing research, policy, and practice, are missing. Most research focuses on cereals like sorghum, overlooking other crops such as vegetables, root crops, legumes, and nuts, limiting nutrient diversity in food system. A review of five traditional crops—sorghum, amaranth, cassava, cowpea, and cashew nuts—assessed research, policy, and practice, aiming to enhance food systems. The review found that existing initiatives on traditional crops are mainly production-focused and region-specific, with gaps in processing, value addition, marketing, nutrition, consumption, and transport. Limited policies and stakeholder involvement has hindered commercialization. Key recommendations should be implemented across research, practice, and policy along the food systems. Research actions include improving taxonomic classification, developing modern breeding programs, researching yield gaps, and enhancing understanding of transport and logistics. Practical strategies involve improving field management through training, integrating informal and formal seed systems, and promoting commercial use. Policies should address all food system aspects including processing, consumption, marketing, and transportation. Increased stakeholder engagement across the value chain is essential for unlocking the potential of traditional crops.

Description

Keywords

Food systems, Traditional crops, Research, Practice, Policy

Sustainable Development Goals

SDG-02: Zero Hunger

Citation

Sussy Munialo, Isabel Madzorera, Anna Lartey, Ramadhani Abdallah Noor, Aboubacry Thiam, Namukolo Covic, Laar Amos, Onyango Adelheid, Kaleab Baye, Laetitia Ouedraogo Nikiema, Fawzi Wafaie & Lindiwe Majele Sibanda (07 Apr 2025): Comparative Analysis of Five African Traditional Multipurpose Crops Using a Food Systems Approach, Food Reviews International, DOI: 10.1080/87559129.2025.2481449.