Field Day

The seed potato field day was held on the 25th September 2019 by the agriculture research centre in partnership with the Taiwan Technical Mission. In attendance were stakeholders from different organisations, namely; UNESWA, Luyengo, National Agricultural Marketing Board (NAMBoard), Eswatini Water and Agricultural Development Enterprise, Ministry of Agriculture (extension), and world vision, as well as farmers from across the country.

The purpose of the field day was to appreciate the processes undergone in the production of certified seed potato (generation 4) that is sold to farmers.

The process starts in the tissue culture laboratory where potato is grown from tissue culture to produce disease free generation zero (G0) seed potato micro tubers. The tubers are then multiplied twice in a controlled field (green house) to increase their number and sizes (G1), that can quickly get good and healthy for farmers.

The generation 1 seeds are then planted in another green house to further multiply and harden (G2). In this green house pests and diseases are totally not allowed. If there are traces of infection, entire field is destroyed.

Generation 3 of seed is planted in an open field after passing greenhouse stage. This seed will be harvested and replanted as generation 4 that will be sold to farmers.

Presentations:

NAMBoard CEO

On behalf of the NAMBoard CEO, the agri-business manager, Mr. Tammy Dlamini appreciated the partnership Taiwan had with the research station on the production of certified seed potato for farmers. This enabled farmers to produce quality potato that was market worthy. He mentioned that availability of the seed potato was a plus for the market since this would increase the quantity produced in the country hence would boost the country’s economy. He further encouraged farmers to venture in potato production because there were many opportunities since consumption was too high.