Swazi Observer

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SMALLHOLDER FARMERS CRUSHING 5.4 MILLION TONS OF SUGAR CANE

By Majaha Nkonyane | 2018-10-15

THE smallholder farmer sector has shown tremendous growth since inception in 1994 to date as it has grown from crushing 1.2 million tons of sugar cane in 1994 to 5.4 million tons of sugar cane.

This was voiced out by Eswatini Cane Growers Association Dr. Sipho Nkambule who was speaking during the Smallholder Sugarcane Growers Competition that was held at Phumlamcashi on Friday.

“We are happy with the growth of the association as there has been growth over the years, we have grown from crushing 1.2 million tons of sugar cane to an impressive 5.4 million tons. There has also been an improvement in sucrose production as we have improved from eight per cent to 24 per cent since inception,” he said.

The growth of the association with impressive production levels according to Nkambule is out of hard work, dedication and a good working spirit amongst the growers. Nkhambule said the competition more than the prizes won is meant to encourage a good working spirit amongst the growers.

“This year’s competition includes sustainability and business management amongst many factors that help us choose the winners. We are happy with the production as it is a reflection of good growing conditions despite the several challenges faced by the growers,” he said.

Nkambule noted that the growers still face challenges such as an increase in production costs inclusive of electricity, high costs of funding, increasing consumer demands and a regressive tax regime.

In addition Nkamble said as an association they have dreams for growth where they record profits amid the context of current challenges. The association is also working towards gauging themselves against the giants in pertinent categories through industry wide competition.

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