BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – The National Agricultural Marketing Board (NAMBoard) has officially inaugurated its highly anticipated Farmer Support Roadshow.
The roadshow commenced on 12 February 2025 at the Jabulani Packhouse in the Shiselweni region. This initiative aims to empower farmers with vital knowledge and resources to enhance their agricultural production, market access, and financial sustainability.
Empowering Farmers with Essential Knowledge
The roadshow serves as a platform for farmers to receive education and guidance on various critical aspects of farming and agribusiness. Key topics to be addressed include:
– Quality Standards – Ensuring farmers meet market requirements for their produce.
– EHIS Registration – Educating farmers on the Eswatini Horticulture Information System (EHIS), an essential platform for market participation.
– Trade and Regulations – Informing farmers about the legal frameworks governing agricultural trade.
– Market Facilitation & Cold Chain Services – Assisting farmers in accessing local and export markets while preserving produce quality through effective cold storage.
– Farmer Support and Development Services – Providing technical assistance and training to enhance productivity.
– Input Subsidy and Revolving Fund Loan Applications – Supporting farmers in accessing financial aid for purchasing inputs and expanding their agricultural enterprises.
– Services Offered by Other Relevant Stakeholders – Showcasing opportunities provided by government agencies, financial institutions, and agricultural organisations.
Strengthening the Agricultural Sector
NAMBoard’s Farmer Support Roadshow is designed to bridge the knowledge gap and equip farmers with the requisite skills and resources to compete in both local and international markets. Speaking about the initiative, a NAMBoard representative underscored the importance of providing farmers with direct access to essential agricultural services.
“This roadshow presents an invaluable opportunity for farmers to learn, engage with experts, and capitalise on various support programmes that can facilitate their success in the agricultural sector. By empowering farmers, we are simultaneously fortifying food security and promoting economic growth in Eswatini,” the representative stated.
Collaboration with Key Stakeholders
The roadshow also features participation from key stakeholders in the agricultural sector, including government ministries, financial institutions, and agribusiness service providers. These collaborators will furnish farmers with valuable information on funding opportunities, market linkages, and technical support.
A Nationwide Initiative
Following today’s launch in Shiselweni, the NAMBoard Farmer Support Roadshow is set to progress to other regions, ensuring that farmers throughout the country benefit from this initiative. Farmers are encouraged to attend and seize the free educational sessions and networking opportunities available at each roadshow event.
How to Participate
Farmers interested in attending can visit the Jabulani Packhouse today or follow updates from NAMBoard for information on forthcoming roadshow locations. Through this initiative, NAMBoard continues to demonstrate its commitment to supporting farmers, enhancing agricultural productivity, and bolstering Eswatini’s agricultural economy.
