This program focused on the training and capacitance of these beneficiaries on food safety (HACCP certification), food standards for local and South African markets as well as food standards for European markets. Beneficiaries were trained on labelling, customs requirements and increasing brand visibility to gain market access A part of the program was to link producers domestically to large South African brands such as Pick N Pay and Shoprite, who operate in Eswatini.

Producers in this program would have their products tested for correct labelling and certification in order to access various markets domestically and internationally.

The program beneficiaries are local and regional value added food producers (jams, peanut butter and chilli sauces) including rural producer groups,22 regional firms involved in natural cosmetics, natural health care products and food were trained on International Standards ISO 90001 and FSC22000 over sixteen weeks to ready them for ISO Certifications. Ensuring that regional firms have intentional standards is key to growing exports from the region. We have developed a user friendly cross border, customs and legislation handbook for natural cosmetics and food producers in Southern Africa. The handbook includes customs requirements for Europe, South Africa and the USA.