2.     Strengthening Agricultural Research and Extension

 

Based on the analysis in the preceding section, significantly more research is required into the potential of alternative crops, to  either complement or replace sugar There is little or no information on soil types or climatic conditions required by other crops, nor are there any market analyses for the respective sectors. These need to be established as a matter of priority. In this respect, existing research institutions and facilties should be strenghened and expanded to enable them to undertake more appropriate agronomic field trials that are determined by market requirements.

 

Measure

 

• Strengthen research facilities and institute market research and practical field scale agronomic trials on alternative crops.

 

 

5.     Trade in New Products, Food Safety and Standards Control

 

A standard and quality control unit was established in 1996 in the Ministry of Enterprise and Employment, with legislation allowing for the creation of a Standards Authority enacted in 2003. A lot of work is needed on meeting market requirements to allow Swaziland to export food products to international markets. Phyto-sanitary standards of the different markets as well as consumer tastes and preferences have to be taken into consideration.

 

Measures

 

• Study the capacity for control of and compliance with phyto-sanitary, livestock health, and food safety regulations for potential Swazi exporters. The creation and support for the operation of the national quality and standards institution is necessary;
• Establish a support mechanism to follow up recommendations on control of and compliance with the above

 

6.     Diversification into New Economic Activities

 

Where potential has already been identified in other sectors, other than agriculture, such needs to be nurtured and developed. Tourism stands out as one obvious sector to support people to venture into. The possibilities of diversifying into the tourism industry need to be investigated and promoted. The sugar industry area also possess good potential for diversification into tourism.

 

Measure

 

·         Promote Tourism