By Noxolo Dlamini
NHLANGANO — In a celebration of agricultural excellence, three standout farmers walked away with vouchers totaling SZL8,000 at NAMBoard’s Nhlangano Roadshow, held on 12 February 2025 at the Jabulani Pack House in Shiselweni. The awards recognized Vincent Gabi Mbhamali, Mfanukhona Mngometulu, and Musa Wellington Gamedze for their unwavering commitment to supplying high-quality produce and bolstering Eswatini’s food security.
A Harvest of Recognition
The farmers were rewarded in proportion to their contributions to NAMBoard’s supply chain over the past year. Leading the pack was Vincent Gabi Mbhamali, who earned a SZL4,000 voucher for supplying produce valued at an impressive SZL254,382. Close behind was Mfanukhona Mngometulu, whose SZL214,778.40 in deliveries secured him a SZL2,000 voucher. Rounding out the trio was veteran grower Musa Wellington Gamedze, a repeat awardee, who received a SZL1,000 voucher for his SZL207,180 worth of vegetable supplies.
Cultivating Growth Through Incentives
Sifiso Dlamini, NAMBoard’s Development Manager, emphasized the initiative’s dual purpose: rewarding consistency and fueling progress. “These vouchers aren’t just prizes—they’re investments,” he stated. “By empowering farmers to upgrade equipment, adopt new technologies, or expand operations, we’re strengthening both their livelihoods and the national food supply chain.”
A Veteran’s Victory
For Gamedze, a seasoned farmer from EMpakeni, the award marked a nostalgic triumph. “This is my second win—I first received this honor in 2016,” he shared, crediting NAMBoard and partners for fostering resilience among small-scale producers. Specializing in nutrient-rich vegetables like butternut, cabbage, tomatoes, and green peppers, Gamedze’s operation exemplifies the impact of structured market access.
Rooted in Community
The roadshow drew farmers, agribusiness leaders, and policymakers, all applauding NAMBoard’s farmer-first approach. Attendees highlighted the program’s role in bridging gaps between producers and markets while promoting sustainable practices. The event also featured networking opportunities and workshops, reinforcing NAMBoard’s vision of a collaborative agricultural ecosystem.
Sowing Seeds for the Future
As Eswatini pushes toward food self-sufficiency, initiatives like these spotlight the critical role of smallholder farmers. By incentivizing quality and consistency, NAMBoard not only uplifts rural economies but also ensures that the nation’s agricultural sector remains robust, innovative, and ready to meet tomorrow’s challenges.
Agribusiness Media celebrates these farming champions and the organizations nurturing their growth. Stay tuned for more updates on Eswatini’s agricultural revolution!
