Common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) are a major subsistence crop in sub-Saharan Africa. Due to their capacity to fix atmospheric nitrogen, they are a very important source of dietary protein for the population and contribute to soil fertility. Nonetheless, common beans are known to have a low productivity and a high variability in yields. A better understanding of what causes this variability is necessary to adopt the right practices that will enhance the productivity of common beans.

This report studies linkages in the soybean market chain in Uganda in an attempt to grasp what kind of challenges occur in the market, what the consequences of these challenges are, and what kind of coping strategies were employed to counter the challenges and their consequences. Qualitative data analysis was done on 11 key informant interviews, six focus group discussions, and participant observations. A Market Map, showing linkages in the chain between relevant actors, was created and a theoretical framework of challenges, consequences and strategies was constructed.

The cultivation of legume crops in combination with targeted sets of agricultural technologies is expected to improve soil quality, reduce the impact of agriculture on the direct environment, and allow farmers to intensify their production and increase their incomes and food security. In this context, the N2Africa programme has disseminated ‘tailor-made’ input- and knowledge packages in Ghana.