BY ANDREW DLAMINI
MBABANE – In a display of agricultural prowess, local guava farmer Ms Makhsie and strawberry farmer Mr Maseko took centre stage at the NAMBOARD National Produce and Sales Commission’s farmers’ market in Manzini city centre.
According to the Facebook page Technical Mission of the Republic of China (Taiwan) in Eswatini, the event was part of the second phase of the Fruit Tree Production and Marketing Program, aimed to empower emerging fruit tree farmers by providing them with a direct avenue to sell their produce to consumers.
At the event, Ms. Makhsie and Mr. Maseko proudly showcased their bountiful harvests at the market. Ms. Makhsie’s guavas, ripe and succulent, and Mr. Maseko’s plump strawberries. Farmers from across the region participated.
The farmers’ market not only served as a platform for these hardworking farmers to increase their income but also played a vital role in connecting consumers with the source of their food. Through direct interaction, consumers gained valuable insights into the cultivation and harvesting processes behind the delectable guavas and strawberries they savoured. This firsthand experience fostered a deeper appreciation for locally grown produce.
The event attracted the attention of supermarket procurement managers keen on diversifying their offerings. They explored avenues to extend retail sales beyond traditional supermarket channels, envisioning a future where more people could relish the flavours of these authentic Taiwanese fruits. The initiative not only bolstered the income of the farmers but also fostered a sense of community between producers and consumers, bridging the gap that often exists in the modern food industry.
This successful event marked a significant step forward in promoting local agriculture, enriching the lives of farmers, and enhancing the culinary experiences of consumers in Manzini and beyond.
(Pics: Taiwan in Eswatini)
