Ǥ ‘˜‡” ʹͲͲ ‡–”‹… –‘‡• ‘—–•‘—”…‡† Beans purchased from local suppliers declines

MBABANE – The purchase of beans from local farmers has decreased by 58 per cent from 93.91 metric tonnes (MT) in 2020/21 to 39.16 MT in 2021/22.

This was revealed by the National Maize Corporation (NMC) in their performance report.

NMC said all projects they were involved in, including the partnerships did not perform well in the period under review.

They said most production was damaged by the prolonged high rainfall conditions experienced last year which resulted in a declined in harvest contributing to lower yields.

The corporation attested that the lower yields were a challenge to the local market with regard to supply which obligated them to outsource more.

NMC said they had a target of 250 MT which is adequate to supply the local market.

“We had an overall target which we are expected to meet in order to be able to supply the local market through various entities,” they said.

The corporation imported about 210 metric tonnes from other countries.

To maximise efficiency government offers a 50 per cent input subsidy on a maximum of one hector per farmer in the service of tractors. the demand was very high to meet the needs of the country. The ministry revealed that the demand of beans was higher than what the country was able to produce.

A few challenges were cited including not having enough seeds to cover the surface area during planting. Another challenge was that beans were sensitive towards wet weather conditions when approaching the harvesting season.

In an interview with the Director of Agriculture, Nelson Mavuso said the country was sourcing three varieties from outside the country plus the one that is produced in the country (Bio-45).

Mavuso also said that there was a market for beans which emaSwati can take advantage of. He also added that in such times the soil indeed was an asset if one takes the initiative and invests in it.

Affected

Sandile Matsenjwa a farmer based at Dvokolwako said the production was affected by the low amount of rainfall they received in the period under review. He said crops were failing to grow at the expected rate thus produce was limited.

“Water scarcity was a challenge to us and this caused monetary problem for our business affecting production,” he said.

(Pics: Mhlengi Magongo) (L)The BMW, one of the brands which has adequate supply of parts locally. (Bottom left) The trailer has not been used for sometime and its in good condition. (Bottom right) This Honda Fit was rumoured to be a petrol saver thus ideal for day-to- day errands.