Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Taiwan Technical Mission’s (TTM) resilience in action and swift response to hailstorm-hit dragon fruit crops assisted in managing more damage and loss.
This was after a severe hailstorm passed through Dalcrue Farm in Malkerns, which led to the assessment of the produce to ascertain the dragon fruit crops that were adversely affected.
Senior Fruit Tree Expert Shih-Lung Cheng said they had to respond swiftly and provide crucial support and knowledge to address the issue. He said the recent rains presented substantial challenges for local farmers, as their valuable crops suffered damages and required urgent rehabilitation. Recognising the significance of dragon fruit in the local agricultural landscape, he said the Fruit Tree Project promptly took action to assist.
He said their mission encompassed not only the removal of damaged plant sections, but also the education of farmers on the correct and effective use of pesticides. By doing so, he said they aimed to help farmers nurse their crops back to health, ensuring higher yields and improved crop quality. “We are deeply committed to supporting the local agricultural community, particularly during challenging times like these.
Agriculture is the backbone of our community and we take pride in offering our expertise to ensure the success of local farmers. “Dragon fruits are known to be an important source of nutrients. Many farmers in Eswatini have successfully cultivated dragon fruit and have begun selling it to supermarkets,” he said.
Meanwhile, Dalcrue Farm Operations Manager Sibusiso Mahlalela said they were one of those that benefited from the mission, expressing their gratitude and acknowledged the critical role played by the TTMin the crop’s recovery. He stated that he was particularly pleased with the guidance provided on pest management, as it not only contributed to the rehabilitation of their dragon fruit plants, but also ensured their long-term health and sustainability.
Mahlalela added that the collaborative efforts between the TTM and local farmers exemplified the spirit
of cooperation and resilience in agriculture.
He said the mission reaffirmed the dedication of TTM to support local communities and enhance the sustainability of the agricultural sector. Adding, he said health benefits for dragon fruits were high because it is rich in antioxidants like flavonoids, phenolic acid and betacyanin.
“Dragon fruits are naturally fat-free and high in fibre, may help lower blood sugar, contain prebiotics, which are foods that feed the healthy bacteria called probiotics in your gut and can strengthen one’s immune system,” added Mahlalela.
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