Skyrocketing fresh produce prices in South Africa and the treat of zero crop yield in Swaziland are making it nearly impossible for fruit and vegetable vendors trading in the country. The effects of drought and El Nino have greatly affected the fresh market produce prices internationally and famine has hit Swaziland, hence fruit and vegetable vendors are forced to purchase their stock in the neighbouring South Africa, where it is also inadequate and expensive.
Some produce has become very scarce, both in Swaziland and South Africa, due to the unfavourable weather conditions. Potatoes, onions, carrots, cucumber, butternut and beetroot, are among the produce the country has in short supply and have to be imported from SA.
Meshack Simelane, a fruit and vegetable supplier at the Mbabane Market, who purchases his fruit and vegetables in Johannesburg, South Africa said the market deal was not fair at all. Simelane said the fresh produce prices had soared in such a way that they could no longer afford to purchase stock.
According to Simelane, the mark- up price is no longer working for them as they are even failing to cater for the expenses they incurred when purchasing the produce.
“With such conditions, it is really tough and quitting would not be an option as we need to survive.”
Simelane further lamented that the National Agricultural Marketing Board (NAMBoard) was failing to assist in this regard and cannot meet their demands.
He also expressed grief on the issue of the Swaziland Revenue Authority (SRA), “The SRA and the Customs office are also demanding money for the imported commodities. This is also biting deep in our already empty pockets.”
Source: times.co.sz
