Cowpeas are one of Zambia’s most important legume crops, valued both as a staple food and as a source of household income. Known for their drought tolerance and ability to grow in poor soils, cowpeas are well suited to Zambia’s diverse farming systems and changing climate. They provide farmers with multiple benefits: nutritious grains rich in protein for home consumption, fodder for livestock, and a ready cash crop for local markets. Cowpeas also improve soil fertility through nitrogen fixation, making them an excellent rotation partner with cereals such as maize or sorghum. 

To achieve good yields, farmers should plant early with the onset of rains, ensure adequate spacing to avoid overcrowding, and control pests such as aphids and pod borers. With the right management, cowpeas deliver reliable harvests, strengthen food security, and support more sustainable farming practices across Zambia.

Cowpea need rainfall of between 250 – 750mm/year, sandy to heavy loam soils of about 4.2-5.0pH making it ideal for Region I.