BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – Farmers across Eswatini are being encouraged to safeguard their hard work and investments through an affordable agricultural insurance programme designed to protect crops against climate and other unexpected risks.
The initiative, promoted through the Eswatini National Agricultural Union (ESNAU), is steadily gaining attention as a practical solution for farmers seeking security and peace of mind throughout the farming season.
For as little as E315 per farming cycle, a farmer can insure maize or beans planted on one hectare. This low-cost option makes insurance accessible to smallholder farmers, many of whom are increasingly vulnerable to climate-related shocks such as hailstorms, strong winds and prolonged dry spells. By embracing crop insurance, farmers are being empowered to plan with confidence and focus on improving productivity rather than worrying about potential losses.
Importantly, the insurance covers an entire farming season — from planting through to harvesting. This means farmers are protected during the most critical stages of crop production, when risks are often highest. Coverage includes damage caused by storms, hail, frost, wind, fire and lightning, among other threats, ensuring that farmers are not left helpless when nature turns against them.
While maize and beans are clearly included, ESNAU has also confirmed that vegetables can be insured under the scheme. However, farmers interested in insuring vegetables are advised to engage directly with ESNAU for further discussions. Vegetable production varies widely depending on crop type, scale and production methods, and tailored guidance is necessary to ensure appropriate cover. This consultative approach ensures that farmers receive insurance solutions that truly reflect their individual farming realities.
The initiative promotes climate-smart agriculture by encouraging farmers to proactively manage risk. With climate change increasingly affecting rainfall patterns and weather extremes, crop insurance is emerging as a vital tool for protecting livelihoods and strengthening national food security.
Farmers seeking more information or wishing to explore their options are encouraged to contact the Eswatini National Agricultural Union directly. ESNAU offices are usually open from Monday to Friday, allowing farmers to visit and engage with staff during the working week. Enquiries can also be made via email at info@snau.co.sz, making it easier for farmers from different regions to access support.
As more farmers join the programme, agricultural insurance is proving to be a powerful step towards a more resilient, secure and sustainable farming future for Eswatini.
