BY TANDZILE DLAMINI
MBABANE – It was a joyful moment for 163 young agri-preneurs, as they have successfully completed the Innovative Climate Smart Tunnel Training Project, marking a major boost to Eswatini’s drive for climate-resilient food production.
The graduation ceremony, held on Wednesday, 11 December 2025, at Riders Ranch, celebrated cohorts 8 to 11 of the national programme. The initiative is designed to equip the youth with essential, practical skills in modern tunnel farming, agribusiness management, and sustainable food production.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Agriculture, Minister of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Bongani Nzima commended the graduates for their resilience. Nzima highlighted the impressive completion rate, noting that 163 out of 172 trainees had successfully navigated the rigorous programme.
The Minister affirmed that the training equips the youth with the knowledge and tools needed to lead Eswatini’s agricultural transformation. He stressed that the initiative aligns perfectly with crucial national priorities, including the National Development Plan, the National Agriculture Investment Plan, the Climate-Smart Agriculture Framework, and the Youth Development Policy.
Nzima extended profound gratitude for the successful partnership that made the programme possible. He acknowledged the generous sponsorship of 160 students by the Embassy of Taiwan and the support for 12 students from Unicorn United Kingdom. He also reserved special commendation for the Woman Farmer Foundation, the implementing partner, recognising the commitment of Sonia Paiva and her team to empowering young farmers and driving agricultural innovation.
Graduates are now certified in the implementation of advanced technologies such as solar-powered fertigation systems, drip irrigation, and protected tunnel cultivation. These methods are critical for conserving water, reducing emissions, and strengthening the nation’s capacity to withstand the impacts of climate change. The programme directly advances the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on zero hunger and poverty eradication. This year’s training was also notable for recording a 65% female participation rate.
The Eswatini National Youth Council’s Dumsani Simelane encouraged the new agripreneurs to fully embrace agribusiness with the right mindset, assuring them of the ENYC’s ongoing support. He praised the Woman Farmer Foundation for pioneering an initiative that actively nurtures the next generation of agricultural innovators.
In a stirring call to action, Minister Nzima urged the young people not merely to seek employment, but to create it, emphasising that agriculture is now a high-potential sector driven by technology and innovation. He explained that tunnel farming and shade-net structures enable profitable year-round production, significantly higher yields, and the cultivation of premium-quality crops.
“Graduates, today you begin your legacy. You are innovators, entrepreneurs, problem-solvers, and leaders. Remain committed, stay curious, and be resilient,” the Minister concluded.
The ceremony marks a significant milestone in Eswatini’s push for food security, climate resilience, and sustainable, youth-driven economic growth.
