Review of Sisal Production and Research in Tanzania

Abstract

Sisal is an endemic tropical crop whose leaves provide the world's most important hard natural fibre used in the production of twines, ropes, sacks and carpets. This paper reviews the history of sisal in Tanzania, its production trends and current research on the crop. In the 1960's, the country produced large amount of sisal and was the world's leading producer, contributing nearly 24% of the total world production; but from 1970 onwards, the production started to decline rapidly. Despite the decline, sisal is still considered important in the country's economy. Limited market prospects and unfavorable world market prices, inadequate research development and poor marketing arrangements are among the factors responsible for the decline in production. Moreover, research on soils and land suitability shows that continued sisal cultivation quickly depletes the soil nutrient reserves, thereby rendering the crop unable to attain high production levels. Some alternative land uses in Tanzania are suggested.