BY PHESHEYA KUNENE – EDITOR
MKHIWENI – Farmers in Mkhiweni witnessed a renewed spirit of collaboration and empowerment as government and agricultural partners marked World Food Day 2025, bringing policy, progress, and purpose directly to the fields.
Leading the commemoration was Minister of Agriculture Mandla Tshawuka, who was joined by representatives from FAO Eswatini, EWADE, NAMBoard, World Vision Eswatini, and other key stakeholders.
The event, themed “Hand in Hand for Better Food and a Better Future,” accentuated Eswatini’s determination to strengthen its food systems and restore confidence in the nation’s farmers.
Minister Tshawuka announced that the government had injected E61 million toward various programmes designed to empower farmers, create jobs, and boost national food security.
“These investments will not only transform the agricultural sector but also uplift rural livelihoods and stimulate economic growth,” he said.
He detailed the allocations, noting E14 million for the Hamba Ubuye commercial farming programme, E40 million for new commercial farming funding, and a E7 million increase in maize and beans subsidies.
He further outlined major infrastructure projects aimed at building climate resilience, including the flagship Mpakeni Dam, a multi-purpose development integrating irrigation, an industrial park, energy plant, and eco-city design.
“We are building resilience through scoop dams, medium irrigation dams, and large-scale reservoirs. This is how we secure Eswatini’s food future,” Tshawuka said.
The minister highlighted ongoing initiatives such as the Youth Employment Programme in partnership with the World Bank, and the climate-smart agriculture training under the Woman Farmer Foundation, aimed at equipping young people and women with practical agricultural skills.
He also applauded FAO, which celebrates 80 years this year, for its longstanding partnership with Eswatini and the recently signed Country Host Agreement in Rome.
“FAO’s contribution to fighting hunger and malnutrition has been indelible, and this new agreement will strengthen life-changing programmes for Emaswati,” he said.
In a show of solidarity, FAO Eswatini, EWADE, and other entities reaffirmed their commitment to sustainable food production and inclusive growth. Tshawuka reminded attendees that government’s philosophy of Buntfu aligns with this year’s theme: “We are stronger together.
The story of food in Eswatini is the story of all of us. Government will continue to walk hand in hand with farmers and partners so that no Liswati is left behind.”
The Marrime brothers of Marrime Farms were also recognised for pioneering climate-smart agriculture.
“Marrime Farms is a great example of what Eswatini agriculture can be,” Tshawuka remarked.
“They are driving the full process from seedling to supply and showing that youth-led agribusiness is possible.”
Beyond the speeches, the visit symbolised a growing trust between farmers and institutions, bridging gaps and laying the groundwork for a more self-sustaining, food-secure Eswatini.
As the celebration concluded, one message stood firm across Mkhiweni’s fertile fields, the hands that feed Eswatini will no longer work alone.
