Reviving Forgotten Foods: Agronomic Performance and Economic Potential of Underutilized Indigenous Crops in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

Crop diversification is increasingly recognized as a cornerstone of global strategies for sustainable

agriculture, climate resilience, and nutritional security. In Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), underutilized

indigenous crops such as sorghum, millet, Bambara groundnut, fonio, and amaranth offer a unique

combination of agronomic adaptability, nutrient density, and cultural relevance. These species have

evolved under local agroecological pressures, conferring tolerance to drought, heat, and marginal soils

while contributing to dietary diversity and rural income generation. Despite their potential, indigenous

crops remain marginalized in research, policy, and markets.