LUDZELUDZE, MANZINI REGION – The Minister of Agriculture has officially opened Mphembekati Dipping Tank No. 440 under Ludzeludze Inkhundla, a livestock health and marketing facility valued at over E470,000.
The new infrastructure is expected to play a dual role: strengthening disease control in the area while also serving as a commercial hub where farmers can market their livestock through formal auctions.
In his remarks, the Minister emphasised the need for farmers to shift from purely traditional practices to more commercial livestock production that responds to market demand.
“We need to adopt the culture of selling livestock when it is ready and good for the market. This facility provides the perfect space for hosting auctions, which promote fair competition among buyers instead of selling to individuals at low prices. I encourage you to work closely with government officials to ensure auctions are conducted here,” he said.
From dipping tank to local livestock marketplace
Beyond its core function in tick control and general animal health, Mphembekati Dipping Tank No. 440 has been designed as a multi-purpose facility. With adequate holding space and access, it can host regular auctions, giving local farmers a better platform to:
- Access more buyers in one place
- Obtain fair and competitive prices
- Reduce reliance on middlemen and distress sales
- Improve herd management by selling animals at optimal market weight
The Minister encouraged farmers and local leaders to embrace the facility as a strategic rural marketplace for cattle and other livestock.
Call to diversify: feedlots, piggery and traditional chickens
The Minister also urged farmers to broaden their income streams by diversifying into feedlotting, piggery and traditional chicken production, noting that demand for meat remains consistently high across Eswatini.
“It is high time we start venturing into commercial farming. Meat is always in demand, there’s no function without meat!” he said, calling on farmers to think beyond subsistence and position themselves for formal markets in retail, hospitality and events.
Vigilance on Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD)
While celebrating the opening, the Minister used the platform to remind farmers of the ongoing threat of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and the importance of responsible livestock movement.
He strongly cautioned against illegal transportation of animals and animal products from infected to clean areas.
“Let us act responsibly by not smuggling livestock or livestock products from infected to clean areas. Please report any suspicious symptoms to your nearest Veterinary Office or call toll-free number 112,” he urged.
The new dipping tank and auction-ready facility at Mphembekati is expected to support healthier herds, stronger market linkages and better incomes for livestock farmers in Ludzeludze and surrounding communities.
Photo Credit: Ministry of Agriculture Communications Unit
