BY MBONO MDLULI
MALKERNS – Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini inaugurated the Aquaculture Research and Production Centre at the Malkerns Research Station.
The prime minister inaugurated this building on February 28, 2025. This facility, valued at approximately E40.4 million (or US$2.19 million), was constructed with the assistance of the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan). Although the Prime Minister was represented by Minister of Agriculture Mandla Tshawuka, the event underscored the significance of this initiative for the nation’s aquaculture sector.
Objectives and Importance
The primary aim of the centre is to enhance fish production in Eswatini, regarded as a vital and affordable source of protein for the populace. The Prime Minister asserted the necessity to diversify protein sources to combat stunting in young children and to provide economic opportunities for households and youth through fish farming. He highlighted that the centre intends to address the scarcity of fingerlings, which has posed a substantial challenge for local fish farmers, by producing them in significant quantities.
Contributions and Future Prospects
Taiwan’s Ambassador to Eswatini, His Excellency Jeremy Liang, remarked that this project forms part of a broader development initiative presented to Taiwan by His Majesty King Mswati III. The project commenced in 2021 and construction occurred from July 2022 to July 2024, with expectations that it would further strengthen the ties between Eswatini and Taiwan.
The Prime Minister conveyed his optimism that the establishment of the centre would herald a booming fish industry in the kingdom, contributing to food sovereignty and efforts to alleviate hunger and poverty. He also indicated forthcoming projects across various sectors, including infrastructure and agro-industry, aimed at stimulating economic growth and achieving double-digit GDP growth during the current administration.
Conclusion
The inauguration of the Aquaculture Research and Production Centre signifies a pivotal advancement in enhancing the aquaculture sector in Eswatini, with the potential to improve food security and economic prospects for its citizens. The collaboration with Taiwan exemplifies the importance of international partnerships in attaining developmental objectives.
