Journal of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Evaluating the Efficiency of Artificial Market Participation and Commercialization of Bambara Groundnut in Kavango East, Namibia
Dortea Ngonyofi Nakandjibi, Helmke Sartorius Von Bach, and Kennedy Muzammai Kalundu

Abstract
Bambara groundnut (BGN) is an underutilized legume with significant potential for improving food security, livelihoods, and income, especially in rural regions like Kavango East, Namibia. Despite its high nutritional value and climate resilience, BGN remains largely neglected and under-commercialized. This study investigates the commercialization of BGN in Kavango East, focusing on factors influencing market participation and production. The study interviewed about 94 respondents, including producers (88) who also served as traders, 6 traders. The data was collected on a face-to-face survey using semi-structured questionnaires. Using the gross margin analysis, household commercialization indices (HCI), and Tobit regression models. A positive gross margin of N$ 9,977 was calculated, indicating that, on average, the Bambara groundnut farmers are making a profit from their production. However, with an average HCI of 43%, more than half of the Bambara groundnut produced is retained for household consumption. The farmers' participation in the market was affected by aspects like age, market distance, years spent in farming, household Bambara groundnut consumed, their own price/kg, and the substitute cow pea’s price/kg. Recommendations to utilize the potential of this legume include capacitating farmers with underutilized crops and tailoring resources through policies and programs to build a resilient and viable value chain for underutilized crops in Namibia.

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