Breeding dryland legumes for diverse needs: Using multi-location trials and participatory variety selection to develop farmer-preferred groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) and pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) varieties

Agriculture in Sub-Saharan Africa is primarily smallholder-based, employing up to 60% of the workforce and accounting for 14%-23% of GDP. The smallholders grow crops for domestic and off-farm markets, necessitating crop variety attributes for which trait mismatches may limit adoption. Indeed, improved variety adoption is varied and limited, especially for self-pollinated crops, in part due to the mismatch in characteristics of commercialised varieties. The international research community leads breeding of varieties for under-invested crops, especially legumes. These varieties are often resilient and productive, but the dynamisms in target agri-food systems may limit their relevance. Gaining a better understanding of the trait profiles that crop value chain actors consider will increase their adoption. This study combined multi-location trials and participatory variety selection (PVS) of pigeon pea and groundnut across different environments to evaluate the efficacy of both processes in the breeding of desired varieties. The present study shows improvement in the new materials regarding performance and preference by farmers. Additionally, PVS showed that men prioritised productivity and market-enhancing traits, whereas women ranked food security traits highest.

Automated summary

Agriculture in Sub-Saharan Africa is primarily smallholder-based, employing up to 60% of the workforce and accounting for 14%-23% of GDP. The adoption of improved crop varieties is limited, especially for self-pollinated crops, due to mismatched characteristics of commercialized varieties. International research focuses on breeding varieties for under-invested crops, but their relevance is limited by the dynamics of agri-food systems. Understanding the trait profiles valued by crop value chain actors will increase adoption.