Service

Cereals, also called grains, are grasses or members belonging to the monocot family sown for the edible components of their fruit seeds. They are grown in very greater quantities than any other crop because they are known as staple food crops. This means they account for over 50% of human energy and protein needs. Examples of such crops include maize, rice, wheat barley, sorghum, etc but in Swaziland the staple food crop is maize. As a matter of fact this section deals with conducting research trials on cereal crops (maize, sorghum and wheat) to meet the demands of consumers.

This is done through:
• Introduction and initial evaluation of each cereal crop varieties in the agro ecological zones of the country fro yield performance and adaptation.
• The development of appropriate agronomic practices to maximize yields for recommendation to farmers.
• Collaboration with the industry to identify cereal crop varieties with superior industrial characteristics.
• Seed production of varieties from the International Agricultural Research Centers (IARC) that have been recommended for local production.
Since there is no cereal crop breeding in Swaziland, the cereal crops being evaluated are sourced from foreign seed companies and IARC.  

Who can apply for the service

• Citizens

How to apply for the service

• The Agricultural Research Division works through the Extension department.
• As soon as the Research Division has a new innovation it consults with the Extension department who will then formulate ways to reach the people in the communities.
• The Extension Department will call meetings and disperse the innovation to the community members.

Where and How to apply for the service

• The person interested in the innovation must always be in touch with the Extension Officer in his/her community.

When to apply
• Any time of the year as a need for the service arise.

How much does it cost to obtain the service?

• The service is free