Eswatini’s agricultural sector faces a daunting challenge: despite being an agricultural economy, the country spends E2 billion annually on importing vegetables and fruits, primarily from South Africa. This stark reality, highlighted by Bhekizwe Maziya, CEO of the National Agricultural Marketing Board (NAMBoard), underscores the critical need for local farmers to scale up production and commercialize farming. The Marrime brothers—George, Bandile, and Mncoli—are among the trailblazers answering this call, striving to reduce the country’s dependency on imports while building a legacy in farming.

A Family Vision to Boost Local Production

The Marrime brothers founded Marrime Farms to address the gaps in Eswatini’s agricultural supply chain. Inspired by their mother, Vuyisile Mabuza, they established a nursery to produce high-quality seedlings for local farmers. Their farm, located in Luve, now supplies fresh vegetables, including tomatoes and cabbages, to communities and markets in Luve and Manzini.

“Our aim is to reduce the distance farmers and customers travel to access produce and seedlings,” shared Bandile Marrime. Their efforts align with NAMBoard’s call for large-scale agricultural projects to meet local demand and achieve food sovereignty.

Addressing the E2 Billion Import Bill

NAMBoard CEO Bhekizwe Maziya recently revealed that Eswatini imports a wide array of scheduled products, from staple vegetables like cabbage, spinach, and sweet potatoes to specialty items such as broccoli, mushrooms, and peppers. Fruits such as apples, bananas, and avocados are also imported in large quantities. Maziya explained that the lack of large-scale farming and the dominance of subsistence agriculture are major contributors to this dependency.

The Marrime brothers are tackling this issue head-on by producing essential crops locally and creating a sustainable farming model that can inspire other farmers. “We believe that with the right resources and support, farmers in Eswatini can produce most of what we currently import,” said Mncoli Marrime.

Overcoming Challenges in Farming

Like many farmers, the Marrime brothers have faced significant challenges, including climate variability, limited access to quality seeds and modern farming equipment, and water scarcity. To combat these issues, they have invested in drip irrigation, protective netting, and sustainable farming practices.

NAMBoard’s initiatives, such as the Horticulture Revolving Fund, water harvesting projects, and climate-smart agriculture programmes, have also played a role in supporting farmers like the Marrime brothers. “These programmes have helped us improve our yields and expand our operations,” said George Marrime.

Empowering Local Farmers

The Marrime brothers believe that collaboration and knowledge sharing are key to reducing Eswatini’s reliance on imports. They actively engage with local farmers, offering seedlings and advice on modern farming techniques. “We want to create an ecosystem where farmers support each other to achieve food security,” said Bandile Marrime.

Their advice to aspiring farmers includes:

1. Start Small: Focus on manageable projects to minimize risk and gain hands-on experience.
2. Invest in Technology: Modern equipment and techniques can significantly improve efficiency and yields.
3. Network: Build relationships with other farmers, suppliers, and market stakeholders.
4. Work Hard: Farming requires dedication and resilience.
5. Think Commercially: Shift from subsistence farming to a business-oriented approach.

A Path Toward Food Sovereignty

As Marrime Farms continues to grow, the brothers are determined to play a significant role in addressing the E2 billion import gap. They envision a future where Eswatini is self-sufficient in food production, ensuring economic growth and sustainability.

The NAMBoard CEO’s statement that Eswatini has sufficient arable land but struggles with its efficient utilization resonates with the Marrime brothers’ approach. By maximizing productivity and promoting sustainable practices, they are not only reducing imports but also creating jobs and fostering economic security in their community.

A Legacy of Growth and Resilience

The Marrime brothers’ story is a testament to the potential of local farmers to transform Eswatini’s agricultural landscape. By addressing critical challenges and embracing innovative solutions, they are paving the way for a more self-reliant and prosperous future.