SusTec

The legume Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) is not only colorful and pretty but also tasty - however hardly known in Germany. Native to West Africa, it is quite drought tolerant and does well in nutrient-poor soils, largely due to its ability to form nitrogen-fixing root nodules with compatible rhizobia. In SusTec's target region in northern Namibia, it is grown by subsistence farmers, often with only low yields. In this region malnutrition, especially protein deficiency, is severe among children (23% are developmentally stunted by malnutrition).

The research of our project aims to improve sustainable cultivation in the region through adapted symbiotic bacteria, and to transform this under-developed crop into innovative products - both for regional needs with viable market chains for local consumption and for potential export products for vegetarian/vegan cuisine. To this end, our international team of microbiologists, plant breeders, food and nutrition specialists at the University of Bremen, ttz Bremerhaven, the University of Namibia (UNAM) and the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) are working together. As a training component, Namibian and German master's students work together, and workshops are designed to ensure a broad transfer of knowledge and applications.  Funding by DAAD, start 2021, contact Prof. Barbara Reinhold-Hurek, University of Bremen, Faculty 2.