Although OFSP products are suitable for food security, nutrition and income generation in communities, arge scope for investment in establishment of OFSP agro-processing enterprises has yet to be achieved in South Africa. This limits the level of OFSP adoption and utilization.  

The agro-processing facility at ARC-VOPI was established in 2012 to conduct research and formulate products of Orange-fleshed (OFSP) and to train communities to produce OFSP products using industrial equipment for income generation.

Sweet potato growers have been trained to establish their own OFSP value adding enterprises namely in Tshiombo (Limpopo), eManguzi (Kwazulu Natal), and Barberton (Mpumalanga). OFSP processing, and bread making, equipment operation and food handling practices were explained to project members in Siyathuthuka (Bronkhorspruit, Gauteng).

Dr. Sunette Laurie slaurie@arc.agric.za; mosalam@arc.agric.

Sweet potato, as excellent source of both pro-vitamin A and starch, can contribute to address two South African national priorities namely vitamin A deficiency and food security.

The project aims at development, maintenance and promotion of sweetpotato varieties improved yield, good storage root quality and high β-carotene content with increased tolerance to drought, pest and diseases.

South Africa

Dr. Sunette Laurie slaurie@arc.agric.za

A pilot project was implemented in Ndunakazi community in Kwazulu-Natal. We also work in two districts of North West Province and in the Eastern Cape.