BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MBABANE – The Government’s Input Subsidy and Tractor Hire 2025/26 Programme administered by the National Maize Corporation is set to provide vital assistance to 8 130 vulnerable farmers across Eswatini, enhancing food security and improving livelihoods in the agricultural sector.
This initiative is particularly significant as it aims to empower those who face challenges in accessing essential farming resources. The much-anticipated payment day is scheduled for September 1, 2025, with application submissions closing on September 30, 2025 or when the budget has been exhausted, whichever comes first.
This pivotal announcement was made by Honorable Mandla Tshawuka, Minister of Agriculture, during a press conference held at the Ministry of Agriculture, Mbabane. He emphasized that the government has allocated E59.2 million to support this initiative, reflecting a strong commitment to agricultural development and the well-being of farmers in Eswatini.
Importance of the Programme
The Input Subsidy and Tractor Hire Programme is designed to enhance national food security by providing farmers with the necessary tools and resources to succeed. A total of 6 079 Emaswati benefitted from the input subsidy program last season. The government’s support is crucial, especially as farmers prepare for the 2025/26 planting season. By alleviating financial burdens, the program allows farmers to focus on productivity rather than worrying about the costs associated with farming operations.
Tshawuka noted, “This initiative is designed to empower our farmers, ensuring that they have the necessary support to thrive in the upcoming planting season.” The statement underscores the government’s recognition of the challenges faced by vulnerable farmers, who often struggle to secure funding for essential inputs.
Financial Assistance and Subsidies
For the upcoming season, farmers will receive substantial assistance through the program. The government subsidy will cover various essential services, including tractor hire, which has been a critical component of agricultural operations. In the previous season, farmers received E400 for tractor hire, with the government subsidizing E180 (31%). This year, the total cost for tractor hire remains unchanged, ensuring that farmers have access to affordable options for land preparation.
Additionally, the input packages for different crops have been clearly outlined. For maize, the total cost is E12 000, with the government contributing E6 000 and the farmer responsible for E6 000. Similarly, for beans, the total cost is E6 000, with the government contributing E3 000. The contributions for sorghum are set at E6 400, with the government covering E3 200. This structured approach ensures that farmers understand their financial responsibilities while benefitting from government support.
Eligibility Criteria and Application Process
To qualify for the program, farmers must meet specific eligibility criteria, which include demonstrating that they have conducted soil analyses and provided results to the government. This requirement ensures that the assistance is directed to those who need it most and that the aid is used effectively to improve agricultural practices.
The Tshawuka urges farmers to adhere to the application deadlines and emphasized the importance of early preparation. “We encourage all farmers to engage in early ploughing and planting.
As the nation gears up for another productive farming season, the collaboration between the government and the agricultural sector remains vital. The Input Subsidy and Tractor Hire Programme stands as a crucial initiative in promoting agricultural sustainability and growth, paving the way for a brighter future for vulnerable farmers.
To promote responsible usage of the subsidy, farmers are encouraged to register with their Extension Officers prior to making payments. The Ministry and NMC will provide more details on these interventions going forward.
