On-farm trials conducted in Central and Southern Malawi between 2020 and 2024 examined whether combining conservation agriculture (CA) with diversified legume rotations could improve the productivity, nutritional value and stability of smallholder farming systems. In their research published in Field Crops Research, B. Mhlanga and C. Thierfelder compared three cropping systems: a conventional maize–groundnut rotation, conservation agriculture with maize and doubled-up legume rotations, and conservation agriculture combining maize–legume intercropping with doubled-up legume rotations. The analysis assessed maize grain yields, varietal responses, yield stability and the energy and protein produced by the cropping systems as a whole.

Across seasons, both conservation agriculture systems generally achieved significantly higher maize grain yields than the conventional system, with the CA-based maize and doubled-up legume rotation consistently recording the highest productivity. The diversified systems also improved yield stability and reduced the likelihood of low-yield outcomes, although performance varied between seasons and maize varieties responded differently under selected management conditions. These results indicate that system performance depends on the interaction between cropping practices, seasonal conditions and crop characteristics.

The study also highlights the nutritional benefits of assessing maize and legumes together rather than considering maize yields alone. Both conservation agriculture systems increased total energy production, while protein yields rose markedly, particularly in the maize–legume intercrop system. Although intercropping did not consistently increase maize grain yield beyond the maize-based conservation agriculture system, the additional legume substantially enhanced whole-system energy and protein output. The authors conclude that integrated conservation agriculture and doubled-up legume systems offer a promising approach to sustainable intensification, improved yield stability and nutrition-sensitive agriculture in smallholder farming systems in southern Africa. The observed benefits reflect the combined effects of the integrated management systems, rather than the contribution of an additional legume alone.