MBABANE – The farming season has officially begun, with government announcing a major expansion of agricultural support — including 8,670 subsidised farmers, 365 tractors, and 45 planters ready to roll out nationwide as the 2025/2026 ploughing season kicks off.

Launching the season at the Ministry of Agriculture headquarters in Mbabane, Minister for Agriculture Mandla Tshawuka said the Input Subsidy Programme has grown by 28%, up from 6,079 farmers last year, while the National Maize Corporation (NMC) has strengthened its mechanisation capacity to accelerate field preparation and boost food production.

“The subsidy programme is designed to uplift hardworking farmers who meet the eligibility criteria and cannot afford inputs on their own,” Minister Tshawuka said, reaffirming government’s commitment to empowering smallholder farmers through expanded access and efficiency.

Boosted Mechanisation for Farmers Nationwide

According to NMC, the expanded fleet now includes 153 government-owned tractors and 212 contracted from private operators, giving farmers faster and more reliable access to mechanisation services. The number of planters has also tripled from 15 last year to 45, with a target of 65 before the season peaks.

These investments, under the Phezukomkhono campaign, are designed to ensure that “kute lowephelelwa ngumdzaka” — no farmer is left behind due to a lack of equipment or support.

Improved Access to Inputs

The Ministry also confirmed that a full list of accredited agro-dealers has been published, with their network expanded across all regions to make input purchases easier. Farmers can buy items within their allocated budgets without a cap, selecting one crop input package — maize, beans, or sorghum — to promote fair distribution and focused production.

Positive Weather Outlook and Early Planting Appeal

With a favourable weather forecast, Minister Tshawuka urged farmers to begin ploughing early and plan for bean planting by February 2026 to maximise yields.

“The weather is on our side, let’s go out early and work the land. Phezukomkhono!” he declared.

FMD Situation Under Control

The Minister also reported encouraging progress in the fight against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD). While there had been an incursion in Mambane, the outbreak is now contained, with no new infections reported in Hluti, Lavumisa, and Lubulini. A total of 188,800 vaccine doses have been received, and vaccination efforts are ongoing with support from the Botswana Vaccine Institute (BVI).

“We are maintaining strong surveillance to prevent further spread of the disease,” he said.

A Season of Hope and Productivity

With more farmers supported, improved access to inputs, and increased mechanisation, the Ministry is optimistic that the 2025/26 season will bring renewed productivity and resilience across Eswatini’s farming communities.

“This is a season to rise and farm. The government has done its part — now it’s time for every farmer to do theirs,” Minister Tshawuka concluded.

Continued Battle Against Foot and Mouth Disease

Turning to livestock, Minister Tshawuka reported encouraging progress in containing the Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak. He confirmed that while there had been an incursion at Mambane, the situation was under control with no new infections reported at Hluti, Lavumisa, or Lubulini. A total of 188,800 vaccine doses have arrived in the country, and vaccinations are currently underway, supported by experts from the Botswana Vaccine Institute (BVI).

“We are fighting the Mambane incursion and maintaining strong surveillance to prevent further spread,” the Minister stated.

A Season of Hope and Productivity

With better rainfall prospects, increased machinery, and more farmers supported than ever before, the Ministry is optimistic that the 2025/26 season will bring renewed productivity across Eswatini’s farming communities. Minister Tshawuka called on all farmers to rise to the occasion under the Phezukomkhono spirit  “the call to action” and make full use of the government’s support mechanisms.

“The weather is on our side; now it’s time to go out and work the land. Phezukomkhono!” he concluded.

Key Takeaways for Farmers

• 8,670 farmers to benefit from subsidies — a 28% increase from last year.
• Expanded network of agro-dealers across regions for easier access to inputs.
• No cap on items purchased within budget, but only one crop package per farmer.
• 365 tractors available nationwide, with 65 planters targeted this season.
• FMD under control; 188,800 vaccines deployed with BVI support.
• Early planting encouraged, particularly for beans by February 2026.