Gliricidia intercropping in Zambia shows promising results

A collaborative project led by the Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research (NIBIO) has found that intercropping the deciduous tree species Gliricidasepium (Gliricidia) with maize, soybean, and groundnuts in Zambia significantly improves crop nutrition and soil health. The research, now in its third year, has shown that Gliricidia intercropping increases the nitrogen content in grains, lowers tannin and phytic acid levels in crops, and reduces mycotoxin prevalence. Additionally, it enhances the functional properties of crops and aids in carbon sequestration, leading to healthier, more nutritious food crops for small-scale farmers in Zambia. This study aligns with the Norwegian Government's focus on food security and nutrition and has been supported by the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD), which has extended its funding for the project by an additional year.