Cowpea Leaves Gain Global Recognition for Health Benefits in Busia County

BUSIA COUNTY, Kenya – The humble cowpea, locally known as ‘Kunde’, is gaining international acclaim for its health benefits, particularly for hypertension and diabetic patients. The leafy vegetable, known for its rich fibre content and vitamins A and C, is now a staple in both rural and urban kitchens.

According to Kenya News Agency, a Sub County Education Director from Teso North Sub County and a kitchen gardener in Amagoro, cowpea leaves have become a popular choice in many households. These leaves are not only a nutritional powerhouse but also integral to the cultural cuisine of native African communities. Marangach highlighted the traditional preparation methods that include the use of ‘Munyu’, a traditional lye, underscoring the deep-rooted culinary heritage associated with ‘Kunde’.

Cowpeas are also recognized for their amino acid tryptophan, which aids in melatonin production, potentially improving sleep patterns. Thriving in dry conditions and sandy soils, cowpeas are a resilient crop, making them ideal for arid and semi-arid regions. They are particularly valuable in areas like Teso North subcounty, where erratic rainfall and limited irrigation facilities pose challenges for vegetable production.

Despite their numerous health benefits and easy cultivation, the production and consumption of indigenous vegetables like cowpeas remain limited in the region. Dr. Amos Wafula, a nutritionist at Kocholia Subcounty Hospital, pointed out that malnutrition is still prevalent among children and women in the area. He emphasized the need for increased awareness and consumption of these nutrient-rich vegetables.

The market for indigenous vegetables is growing, with a ready market in Malaba, Busia, and nearby towns like Bungoma. The cultivation of these vegetables not only contributes to the nutritional well-being of the community but also provides an important source of income for local farmers.

Marangach and Wafula both advocate for the importance of kitchen gardens in every household. They stress the need for training in the cultivation and preparation of indigenous vegetables, challenging local myths that undervalue the nutritional importance of these greens compared to red meat.

In a region where farming challenges are prevalent, the rise of cowpea leaves as a nutritional, easy-to-grow crop offers a promising solution to improving both health and economic conditions in Busia County.