Food and Nutrition security: The majority of examined literature report positive contribution of NUS through food security, by o marginalized communities to engage in activities that improve their livelihoods and local agricultural systems; and by improving food availability, access and stability. NUS can act as natural insurance for food security in times of adversity and contribute to the diversification of food systems, which is considered to contribute to overall food security.  

Food sovereignty: Some evidence (12% of examined articles) was found on the positive contribution of NUS to food sovereignty, linked to their positive contribution to crop diversification and the fact that they are used in informal, indigenous smallholder farming systems supported by informal seed systems. 

Health and nutrition: NUS are rich in nutrients, proteins, dietary fiber, healthy carbohydrates and proteins, vitamins, active compounds, antioxidants and minerals. This can to improving the health statuses of people at different scales  

The most strategic NUS identified in the examined literature, are bambara groundnut (Vigna Subterranea), occurring in 18.2% of the reviewed publications, and ensete (Ensete ventricosum), (10.7%), followed by Amaranthus and other African leafy vegetables (9.09%), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata), sorghum and yam (Dioscorea L) (6.06% of the publications each). Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz), fonio (Digitaria exilis) and teff (Eragrostis tef) (4.5% of publications each). Millet and taro were addressed in 3% of screened publications. 

Contribution to resilient food system:

13 of the examined studies report that NUS are adaptable to changes and adversity and suitable to grow in a wide range of environments. Compared to mainstream crops, they generally require easier maintenance, and fewer input. & studies report NUS tolerance to biotic and abiotic stressors and their ability to withstand harsh conditions.  

Socio-economic benefits from NUS use were reported by several of the examined papers. Benefits stem from NUS potential to be sources of additional income, act as a “natural insurance” against hunger. Women from poor marginal area are the main beneficiaries of NUS cultivation.  

Main barriers to NUS adoption:

Data and research on indigenous and genetic characteristics of NUS are scattered and limited. Knowledge on NUS management has been transmitted primary orally and is currently lacking in many areas. The current seed system does not facilitate the exchange and auto-production of seeds. Some NUS are reported to being less yielding and less commercially viable, with underdeveloped value chains. Gendered restrictions also play a role. Women as the main custodians of NUS, but lack inclusion and support on development agendas. NUS are still stigmatised as poor farmers food, and lack some important attributes for consumers, like easiness in processing, short cooking time, familiar and favourable taste, low water requirement for cooking and processing.  

Policy implications and recommendations:

Interventions must support intersectoral collaborations for environment, food production and nutrition, as well as the formalization of systems to improve the knowledge base and availability of NUS.  

The following specific recommendations are made: