The Ministry of Agriculture in Eswatini, in partnership with key stakeholders, is set to host the first-ever Agriculture Business and Investment Forum on September 18-19, 2024, at The George Hotel in Manzini. This exclusive forum aims to bring together leaders and experts from across the agricultural sector to collaborate on transforming the country's agri-food systems.

Under the theme "Mobilising Partners for Agri-Food Systems Transformation," the forum seeks to galvanize the agricultural community and its partners toward a sustainable and innovative future. The event will focus on fostering partnerships, exploring investment opportunities, and discussing strategies to revolutionize the agricultural sector in Eswatini.

Attendance is by invitation only, but the Ministry has ensured that the broader public can still participate and contribute to the discussions virtually. The forum will be accessible online via Zoom for those who are not physically present. To join the event online, participants can scan the QR code on the official poster or follow this link. Additionally, the event will be livestreamed on the Ministry of Agriculture's official Facebook page, allowing for wider public engagement and interaction.

A Collaborative Effort for Transformative Change

The forum represents a significant step in the ongoing efforts to enhance the agricultural landscape in Eswatini. By bringing together a diverse array of stakeholders—ranging from local farmers and agripreneurs to investors, policymakers, and international partners—the Ministry and its collaborators aim to drive meaningful dialogue and practical solutions that address the challenges and opportunities within the agri-food sector.

Key partners for the forum include:

• NamBoard - Supporting farmers through market access and infrastructure development.
• Eswatini Water and Agricultural Development Enterprise (EWADE) - Focused on sustainable water management for agriculture.
• National Maize Corporation - Enhancing food security through efficient maize and beans production and distribution.
• Eswatini Cotton Board - Promoting the growth and processing of cotton in the country.
• Eswatini Dairy Board - Advancing the dairy industry through modern practices and technology.

Shaping the Future of Agriculture in Eswatini

As Eswatini continues to embrace the challenges of climate change, food security, and economic diversification, the Agriculture Business and Investment Forum stands as a critical platform for discussing innovative approaches and forging new partnerships. It is a unique opportunity for stakeholders to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and collaboratively shape the future of the agricultural sector in Eswatini.

The Ministry of Agriculture invites everyone interested in the future of agriculture to tune in to the discussions and be a part of this transformative journey. Whether you are a farmer, investor, student, or policymaker, your engagement is crucial in driving the agricultural agenda forward.

Stay tuned to the Ministry's official Facebook page for live updates and streaming of the event, and be a part of the change we want to see in our agri-food systems.

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