Domesticating and Commercialisation of Indigenous Fruit and Nut Tree Crops for Food Security and Income Generation in the Kingdom of Eswatini
Emmanuel N. Kunene, Kwanele A. Nxumalo, Menzi P. Ngwenya, Michael T. Masarirambi
Abstract
Indigenous fruit and nut tree crops are very important to the human diet and subsequent food security and income generation in the Kingdom of Eswatini. Indigenous fruits and nuts are important for the nutritional contribution as sources of Vitamins and minerals. They also provide fibre which is essential for proper digestion of food. Fruits, particularly nuts provide man with unsaturated fats which are good for the heat and the cardio vascular system. Indigenous fruits and nuts are aesthetic as they provide interesting colour, texture and variety. Despite the immense benefits of indigenous fruits and nuts to the people of the Kingdom of Eswatini, there has not been enough effort put towards domesticating the indigenous fruit and nut trees and subsequent commercialising their products. The objective of this paper was to document strategies towards domestication and commercialisation of indigenous fruits and nuts for improved livelihoods of Emaswati citizens, which in turn will help achieve sustainable development goals (SDGs) pertaining to human health and food security in the Kingdom of Eswatini. It can be concluded that domesticating indigenous fruit and nut trees can be achieved through a multi-stakeholder involvement. Domestication can also help in conservation of indigenous fruit and nut trees. Value addition on indigenous fruits and nuts can generate more income.