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Perceptions on indigenous fruits processing in Sikonge
district in Tanzania: Is it sustainable?
Tulole Lugendo Bucheyeki
ACCI, Room 121 Rabie
Saunders, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01,
Scottsville, 3209, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. E-mail:
207522482@ukzn.ac.za.
Accepted 20 May 2008 |
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A study on perceptions of
indigenous fruits (IFS) processing was conducted in Sikonge
district, Tanzania. The objectives were to (1) involve
stakeholders in evaluating processing of indigenous fruits
(2) recommend strategies for combating the effects of
processing indigenous fruits (3) perform economic analysis
on the technology. Structured questionnaires and focus group
discussions were used to collect data. Results revealed that
over 90% of people involved in IFS processing were women
while collection and selling of fruits were mostly done
(86%) by children and elders over 55 years. Economic
analysis showed that about US$ 26.04 per month per
individual can be earned through selling processed products.
Results further showed that IFS processing was not
sustainable. The study suggested community environmental
sensitization, use of energy saving technologies, fruits
diversification, proper packing and labeling, improved
fruits handling, nutritional analysis, credit facility
assistance and capacity building on financial, food hygiene
and group formation to be instituted to sustain IFS
processing. Information generated by this study could be
utilized by indigenous fruits processors, NGOs and policy
makers for sustainable fruit processing in the area.
Key words:
Indigenous fruits, perception, processing, sustainability,
Tanzania. |
