Abstract

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.