Monographic Study of the Bambara groundnut [Vigna subterranea (L.) Verdcourt] Culture in Far North Region of Cameroon

The present work aims to determine the socio-demographic characteristics of Bambara groundnut operators, the management method of this crop (cultivation practices) and the constraints that hinder its good production in Far North region of Cameroon. To achieve this, 1412 people without sex distinguish were interviewed in 109 villages and the survey was done in 40 markets. The obtained results identified three actors namely producers, traders and consumers. Active people (18 to 40 years and 41 to 60 years old) are the most involved in Bambara groundnut production and marketing activities. Women and men participate in Bambara groundnut production activities: 59.06 % and 40.94 % respectively. Marketing activities are more devolved to women (82.8 %) than men (17.2 %). Bambara groundnut cultivation has not been abandoned as several authors have pointed out, but there is a real problem of outlets (growth markets) and transformation into other by-products in commercial spaces. The lack of improved seeds (100 % of respondents) and the lack of data on cultivation techniques would contribute to the drop in yield of this crop in the Far North of Cameroon.