Does Conservation Agriculture Matters in Swazis’ Economy? Evidence from Maize Producing Farmers in Ngwempisi Rural Development Area of Swaziland

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to determine the economic impact of conservation agriculture on maize production in the Ngwempisi Rural Development Area of Swaziland. Data were obtained from maize farmers distributed equally among farmers practicing conservation agriculture and conventional agriculture. Data obtained were analyzed by the use of descriptive analysis as well as budgeting technique of analysis. Results showed that maize farmers operating under conservation agriculture obtained higher profit level with an average gross margin of about E 3609 compared with an average gross margin of about E161 obtained for maize farmers who operated under conventional agriculture. Majority of farmers practicing conservation agriculture were males with an average age of about 48 years. It was recommended that famers who are currently not practicing conservation agriculture should adopt the method.

Key words: Conservation agriculture, production, input costs, Swaziland