Soil Fertility Management through Cowpea Intercropping in Upper West Region of Ghana: Farmers’ Perspectives and Cropping System Implications

Abstract Cowpea ( Vigna unguiculata [L.] Walp) is an important multipurpose crop in northern Ghana and is widely incorporated into smallholder cropping systems. However, limited empirical information is available on how farmers’ perceptions, trait preferences, and indigenous knowledge influence cropping system and soil management decisions in cowpea-based farming systems in the Upper West Region of Ghana. A survey of 306 cowpea-farming households showed that 58.5% practiced intercropping, predominantly with cereals. Farmers reported several reasons for intercropping, including perceived soil fertility benefits associated with cowpea. Soil fertility improvement was selected as a preferred cowpea trait by 41.2% of respondents. Among intercropping farmers, 48.0% selected soil fertility improvement as a preferred trait, compared with 31.5% of sole-cropping farmers. Other frequently selected traits included high yield, drought tolerance, early maturity, pest resistance, and compatibility with existing cropping systems. The findings show that perceived soil fertility benefits form part of farmers’ considerations when selecting cowpea varieties and cropping systems. These perceptions can help guide future participatory research and on-farm evaluation of cowpea-based soil management options. Information © The Authors 2026