By Phiwa Sikhondze
The Minister of Agriculture, Mandla Tshawuka, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting farmers through financial schemes designed to support farmers and promote commercial farming in Eswatini.
The Minister disclosed this during the Eswatini National Agriculture Union (ESNAU) 2024 Annual Policy Conference held at the George Hotel in Manzini.
The Minister touched on the EADF (Eswatini Agricultural Development Fund), Hamba Ubuye, NAMBoard Horticulture Guarantee Scheme, Small Scale Enterprise Guarantee Scheme, and Export Guarantee Scheme.
The schemes offer financial support ranging from E100,000 to E3.3 million and were developed following extensive consultations and recommendations from farmers.
“The Ministry has launched these financial schemes to ensure that farmers can access the necessary funds to expand their operations and invest in modern farming techniques,” said Minister Tshawuka.
“We invite all farmers to take advantage of these products as they are tailored to meet their needs and foster the growth of commercial farming in the country.”
Tshawuka also emphasized the importance of the government’s input subsidy program, which supports the production of maize and beans, Eswatini’s staple foods.
“This program is a worthwhile investment aimed at improving food sovereignty in the country,” he noted. “However, I urge farmers not to abuse this program. Cooperation and dedication are essential to reducing our dependency on food imports.”
Currently, Eswatini imports significant volumes of maize (61%), beans (97%), and milk (75%). The Minister stressed the need for self-sufficiency, pointing out recent disruptions in supply from the Eastern Cape due to foot-and-mouth disease, which impacted the availability of milk.
Tshawuka also challenged the farmers present to help shift the mindset from subsistence farming to commercial farming. “Commercial farmers prepare for the season in time, make use of first rains, are concerned about soil health, and take advantage of the finance products available,” he stated. “All departments from the Ministry are ready to service you and provide guidance for commercial farming.”