An Application of SWOT Analysis in Development of Underutilized Plant Species in a Rural Hot Spur in Africa

Various assessments on local and national food security and natural resources conservation efforts have reported results which are yet to change/improve the trend particularly on neglected food crops of local significance. SWOT analysis was applied in the study to analyse key strength, weakness, opportunities and threats to the development of selecte indigenous, underutilized and adaptable food crops (Solanum Spp, Amaranthus Spp, Gongronema Spp and Colocasia Spp) in Mbaise, SE Nigeria. Rural appraisal was conducted followed by administration of structured questionnaires on relevant stakeholders across the study area. Results obtained indicate that the food crops have high potential food value (98.4 %) and the indigenes also do not lack needed skills in crops- propagation/cultivation (90.3 %). The absence of agricultural based research/tertiary institution in addition to inherent poor access to extension service were top areas of weakness identified. Nonetheless, scores of opportunities presented by responding indigenes revealed high medicinal/health value of the crops (87.1 %) and accessibility to local markets for produce disposal. Similarly, highest threats observed by the study were prevalence of various competing land uses in the area (50.0 %) and incidence of pilfering in farmlands (40.3 %). Public and private partnerships (PPP) can stimulate provision of utility and needed rural infrastructural services which can improve local capacity for sustainable food security and conservation.