Supporting smallholders in soybean cultivation: the example of Zimbabwe

Description

Low crop productivity due to soil fertility decline is a major challenge constraining maize-based smallholder farming systems in sub-Saharan Africa. The decline in soil fertility is largely due to continuous cropping without soil replenishment and reduced N2 fixation. In Zimbabwe, soybean has emerged as a key crop that has the potential to help to improve soil fertility and food and income security among smallholder farmers. The majority of research has focused on the biophysical side of soybean production. This chapter adds to existing literature by focusing on the opportunities and constraints for soybean cultivation by smallholder farmers. We review collaborative projects that have promoted soybean cultivation by smallholder farmers, and make recommendations regarding the training, financial and marketing systems required to support smallholder farmers further.

Table of contents

1 Introduction 2 Background to soybean production in Zimbabwe 3 Review of selected soybean promotion projects in Zimbabwe 4 Constraints to soybean cultivation in Zimbabwe 5 Opportunities for soybean cultivation in Zimbabwe 6 Conclusion and recommendations 7 Where to look for further information 8 References