Cultivation and use of African yam bean (Sphenostylis stenocarpa) in the Volta Region of Ghana

Abstract

The African yam bean (Sphenostylis stenocarpa Hochst ex A. Rich) is a legumi nous crop found in the Volta Region of Ghana. Three expeditions were under taken in the region between September 1998 and March 1999 to investigate the extent of cultivation and use of the bean as the basis for research into its develop ment and promotion as a major crop. Its cultivation is currently localized around Nkwanta and Ho West Districts. It is grown as a minor crop in mixed associa tion with yam and cassava. It is used extensively in various dietary prepara tions and has potential for supplement ing the protein requirements of many families throughout the year. Its current low status as a minor crop means that this potential is largely unexploited. Re search efforts are required to improve its agronomic characteristics and promote its cultivation and use as a major crop.


The Journal of Food Technology in Africa Volume 6 No.3, 2001, pp. 74-77



KEY WORDS:

African yam bean, food security, Ghana, legume, pulse, Sphenostylis stenocarpa, under-exploited crop