Abstract:
Lablab pupureus (L.), is a multipurpose drought tolerant legume which is considered as a minor
crop in Kenya, hence, it is underutilized. In Kenya there are few known Lablab genotypes for
specific environments. Choice of genotypes to grow is based on colour preference and seed
availability, thus low yields are obtained. To assess the status of Lablab production in Kenya, a
baseline survey was conducted in Lablab growing localities. A disproportionate stratified
sampling was used and a questionnaire was administered to 108 respondents from diverse Lablab
growing regions of Kenya. Performance of Lablab genotypes under different environmental
conditions was also evaluated. Field trials of forty five (45) accessions of Lablab collected from
Rift Valley, Eastern, Coast and Central regions of Kenya were established in three locations with
different agro-ecological environments; (Nakuru, Uasin Gishu and Bungoma). The 45 accessions
and three environments were factorially combined and replicated three times in a randomized
complete block design (RCBD). Results from the survey indicate that most farmers (84.3%)
grew Lablab in small acreage of less than 1.0 acre, and only 44.4% of the respondents used the
improved Lablab cultivars which were obtained from the Ministry of Agriculture or research
stations. Majority (88%) preferred Lablab to common beans and all respondents noted that
Lablab fetched more income per unit quantity than common bean. All respondents utilized
Lablab dry beans as food. The crop was also utilized as a livestock feed especially during the dry
season when no other crops are in the farms by 51.9% of the respondents while 25% used it in
conservation agriculture and for soil erosion control. About 20.4% of farmers used the leaves and
green pods as vegetables. The study identified accessions that are suitable for different agroecological zones. In conclusion, Lablab is a crop that is climate resilient and contributes to food
security in communities that grow it. It is recommended that dolichos should be promoted in
Kenya as a climate change adaptation measure and to enhance food security. |
