Production and Marketing of African Indigenous Leafy Vegetables

Training Manual for Extension Officers and Practitioners

This handbook is the culmination of five years of research on the production and marketing of African Indigenous Leafy Vegetables (AIVs), aimed at enhancing small-scale farmers’ practices. Focused on five key AIVs—African Nightshade, Amaranth, Cowpea, Ethiopian Kale, and Spiderplant—research was carried out across twelve sub-projects addressing different value chain components, such as soil fertility, seed production, gender dynamics, and marketing. The integrated food systems concept provides a unifying framework for the research findings. Designed primarily for small-scale farmers and extension officers, the handbook offers a practical guide to cultivating and marketing AIVs. It supports both new growers seeking nutritional and economic benefits and existing farmers looking to diversify. Emphasis is placed on accessible agroecological methods such as vermiculture, solar drying, and fermentation. Regional variations are noted where relevant, acknowledging Kenya’s diverse agricultural conditions. Extension officers can use the handbook in trainings, workshops, field schools, and community groups. The manual promotes sustainable, low-cost farming practices that protect soil, water, biodiversity, and farmers’ livelihoods. Detailed guidance includes topics like seed selection, land preparation, pest management, harvesting, and local marketing. The handbook features step-by-step tutorials using affordable, local materials and includes symbols to highlight definitions, tips, further information, and suggested learning activities. Worksheets support practical application and record-keeping. Farmers from Kisumu and Kiserian tested and validated the handbook’s tools and methods. Additional reading materials and resources are listed to deepen understanding. This practical, easy-to-follow resource empowers farmers to adopt sustainable AIV practices and improve food security.

Henze, Judith, Mary Abukutsa-Onyango, Arnold Opiyo