Production and Utilization of Moringa by Farmers in Limpopo Province, South Africa

摘要

Background and Objective: Moringa oleifera ( M. oleifera ) is an important and fast growing tree, in the tropics, it is recognized for its medicinal, industrial, human and livestock nutritional value s. In the Limpopo province of South Africa, Moringa is mainly grown by a limited number of farmers in the backyards and spaces around homesteads. This study is aimed at identifying Moringa growers in the province and to mass information on their perspective knowledge on production and management of the tree as well as the commercial?s production potential. Materials and Methods: The survey was conducted from November, 2013-September, 2014 in five districts of the Limpopo province. Focus group discussion, questionnaires and field observations were used for data collection. A total of 150 Moringa growers formed part of the focus group and a questionnaire was administered to only 31 farmers producing Moringa within an area of 0.25 ha or more. Collected data were analyzed using the SPSS version 22. Results: Results from the survey indicated that there are potential Moringa farmers in all the districts of the province, with the intension to commercialize the tree. Majority of growers were found in Vhembe district (38.7%) and the least in Waterberg and Sekhukhune districts with 9.7%. Male growers were dominant by 64.5% producing mainly in mixed farming system. The highest percentage of farmers, grow Moringa in 0.25-1.0 ha and have been producing the crop for the past 2 years were found in Mopani and Vhembe districts. In general, most farmers grow Moringa for leaf processing into powder (96.8%) that is sold locally. Conclusion: This study revealed that most farmers are willing to expand the Moringa production, however, the major challenge of effective market access need to be addressed. This is critical if the crop is to be incorporated in the smallholder farming system for income generation and food security.