DPM, MINISTER TO REVIVE NKWENE GARDEN PROJECT

By Mbono Mdluli

MBABANE – Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Thulisile Dladla and Minister of Tinkhundla Administration and Development Sikhumbuzo Dlamini have promised to revive the 64-year-old Nkwene Garden Project.

The Nkwene Garden Scheme, operating under the entity Nkwene Limited, consists of 51 members and is preparing to resume its operations after a significant pause caused by severe flooding. The flooding, particularly in December and January, resulted in the Mkhondvo River overflowing, which obstructed the irrigation system’s pipes and has halted production since the start of the year.

Government Support and Restoration Efforts

– Dladla and Minister Dlamini, who is also the Member of Parliament (MP) for Nkwene, visited the garden on May 5, 2025. Their purpose was to evaluate the damage and reinforce government support for the rehabilitation of the irrigation system.

– DPM Dladla’s Commitment: She assured the members that restoration efforts would commence once Micro Projects finalizes the architectural plans, highlighting the urgency to restore productivity. The DPM also encouraged the members to explore business growth opportunities, such as supplying local supermarkets.

– Timeline for Restoration: Dladla expressed her desire to see the project completed by June to allow for the resumption of production. She mentioned that the Microprojects Programme and National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) would facilitate swift operations.

– Support for Women in Farming: The DPM challenged the women in the scheme to focus on organic vegetable farming, aiming to attract a broader customer base.

Historical Significance and Future Plans

– Minister Dlamini’s Remarks: Minister Dlamini emphasized the historical importance of the scheme, noting its role in enabling women to provide for their families and support their children’s education. He acknowledged that this year has been particularly challenging due to the flooding.

– Pledges for Support: To enhance productivity, the Minister promised that Nkwene Limited would receive a new tractor through the Regional Development Fund (RDF). He also encouraged members to submit a formal proposal for a cold-room vehicle to aid in business expansion.

Member Experiences and Community Impact

One member, Bawinile Dladla, shared the tremendous efforts taken to maintain the irrigation system, including crawling inside blocked pipes to clear mud and debris, often facing dangerous situations with snakes. Despite the hardships, the scheme remains a crucial source of income for its members.

Among the long-serving members, Telephone Dlamini (97), who has been part of the garden since 1961, exemplifies the scheme’s lasting impact on the community.

Conclusion

The Nkwene Garden Scheme is on the path to recovery with strong government support and dedicated members. The commitment to restore operations, enhance productivity, and encourage sustainable farming practices signifies a hopeful future for this vital community initiative.