Local Processing of Plant Fibres: Current Status of the Industry in Swaziland
Abstract
180 words
A variety of natural fibre based products are made in Swaziland
for local and export markets. Minimal or no treatment is done
to the fibres to improve quality and hence their low comfort
properties which reduce their marketability. The aim of the
study was to explore enzymatic treatment of fibres from sisal
(Agave sasilana), century plant (Agave americana) and
pineapple (Ananas comosus) with the objective of developing
comfortable and environmentally friendly (green) products. The
specific objectives of the study were to establish the current
status of the plant fibre industry, the demography of the
stakeholders (industry players) and the problems and concerns
encountered with the idea of improving the industry. A qualitative
and quantitative study was carried out in the Hhohho, Manzini
and Shiselweni regions. Participatory rural appraisal (PRA)
tools and questionnaires were employed in the study. The
findings revealed that women and men of varying age groups
were involved, various crude techniques were used in fibre
extraction, raw material was sourced from abandoned plantings,
various dyes used were obtained from indigenous plants and
that some marketing problems were encountered.
Subjects
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