In fact the dagga problem is so serious that it's even starting to interfere with the country's education system. Learners in some parts are said to be abandoning their studies so that they can guard their parents' dagga fields. Everyone wants to ensure that there is a good supply for 2010.
Northern Swaziland's mountainous terrain is the perfect spot to grow illegal crops. The "farmers" penetrate deep into the valleys and it's not easy for trespassers or unwelcome guests to get close.
Even the police find it difficult to deter the "farmers". There have been numerous raids and crop sprayings, but they have had little success.
While most of the dagga -- known as Swazi gold -- is sold to local users, there are reports of it being smuggled into South Africa, the rest of the Southern African Development Community region and overseas.
Source:
Green gold grass of home
Mail & Guardian
April 25, 2009
