Effects of corona virus on commercial farming in the kingdom of Eswatini

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on commercial farming (particularly sugar cane, pineapples and citrus fruits) in the Kingdom of Eswatini. The study concentrated on how the pandemic has affected the workers, marketing of the final products as well as the strategies adopted in order to ensure that production was maximized and the target goals were met in the midst the COVID-19 pandemic. The study adopted the qualitative approach of data collection and analysis. Due to restrictions on movement and visitation imposed by the government in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19, data was collected from only nine (9) respondents, comprising of supervisors and managers (four from Royal Swazi Sugar Cooperation, three from Illovo and two from Rhodes using a questionnaire. The study found that, since commercial farming (specifically sugar cane, pineapple and citrus fruits) form the back born of the country’s economy, production continued normally even though a few alterations had to be made to accommodate the COVID-19 regulations so as to ensure that the GDP is less affected. Despite that borders were formally closed and/or operating under strict rules and restrictions, (mainly on emergencies), it was not hard to export the products. This is solely because drivers were allowed to pass through, although at times the products would delay due to fumigation at the border post. Also, the COVID-19 pandemic has taught both the government and the commercial organizations that they need to be always prepared for unforeseen occurrences through ensuring that there is more than enough food or products available for local consumption and export. The study recommends that measures to increase production be put in place to fill up the production deficit, while the relaxation of more COVID-19 control measures is effected in order to ensure a full recovery of the agricultural commercial sector in Eswatini – a significant sector in the country’s economy.