THE FUTURE OF WILDFLOWER RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT IN SOUTH AFRICA - THE LACHENALIA CASE STUDY

Marasas, C.N.; Anandajayasekeram, Ponniah; Niederwieser, J.G.; Coetzee, M.; Martella, David R.; Pieterse, B.J.; van Rooyen, C.J.

THE FUTURE OF WILDFLOWER RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT IN SOUTH AFRICA - THE LACHENALIA CASE STUDY

Autores

Marasas, C.N.

Anandajayasekeram, Ponniah

Descripción

This paper reports the socio-economic impact of the lachenalia research program of the ARCRoodeplaat Vegetable and Ornamental Plant Institute (ARC-Roodeplaat) over the period 1965-2010. Data were collected from researchers, the local propagator and the market agent in Holland, using guidelines and questionnaires. A financial and economic analysis were conducted. The results of both were negative, unless increased productivity, early entry into all potential markets and a decreased research gestation period were assumed. Additional impacts were qualitatively assessed. The program contributed to employment creation, the preservation of biodiversity, capacity building and beneficial institutional linkages. The management information generated by the study was used in planning and priority setting at the institute.