Service Contract No 2007 / 147-446 - Swaziland

6 A S S E S S M E N T O F O P E R A T I O N , M A N A G E M E N TA N D M A I N T E N A N C E O F T H E I R R I G A T I O NS Y S T E M6 . 1 O p e r a t i o nOperation and maintenance manual not availableThe different components forming the irrigation system require different operating proceduresand these are obtained from an operation and maintenance manual. This document is notavailable and for efficient performance of these components, it must be compiled. Theconsequence of not having this document is seen during this evaluation in that incorrectsequences are followed in opening and closing the pump. Also, this document helps in theformulation of a maintenance plan and provides guidelines to be followed duringmaintenance.Financial viability for smallholder growerThe late conclusion of loan agreements (seasonal loans) results in the late delivery of inputsand late application of fertilizers and chemicals, which reduces yields and sucrose content,resulting in reduced financial returns per hectare and inability to recoup invested capital. Inaddition, the absence of any dividends for distribution to farming association members at theend of each season can lead to a decline in the cohesion of farmers’ associations/cooperatives,a cohesion which is essential to increasing on-farm efficiency.Figure 22. Tonnes Cane per HectaresYield data for the first three seasons could not be obtained but for the above graphproductivity has been on the increase since 2004.Maphobeni Farmers Association Report - 2009 Page - 46 -