BY THEMBA ZWANE
MBABANE– The Eswatini Sugar Association (ESA) has reassured the nation that the ongoing heavy rainfall is unlikely to have a significant impact on sugarcane yields and exports for the current financial year, offering welcome optimism for one of the country’s most important economic sectors.
In an exclusive interview with Eswatini Positive News, ESA Chief Executive Officer Banele Nyamane acknowledged that while the persistent rains present challenges, their most notable effects are expected to be felt in the next production cycle rather than the current one.
“The crop that is currently being affected by the rains will largely fall into the 2026–2027 milling season,” Nyamane explained. “Based on our experience with similar weather patterns in the past, any decline in yields is more likely to be reflected next year rather than in the ongoing season.”
Nyamane noted that the rains, which began in November, disrupted the completion of harvesting for the 2025–2026 crop. As a result, some cane may deteriorate and become more susceptible to pests and diseases. In addition, excessive rainfall can lead to nutrient leaching, which affects cane growth and may require growers to invest further in soil replenishment.
He also highlighted that sugarcane requires a balance of water and sunshine for sucrose formation, and prolonged overcast conditions can reduce yields. Furthermore, waterlogged fields increase the risk of cane lodging, which hampers growth and complicates harvesting operations.
Another concern relates to access roads leading into sugarcane fields, many of which are gravel and have sustained damage due to the heavy rains. These may require repairs before harvesting can resume smoothly.
Despite these challenges, Nyamane stressed that the industry remains resilient and well-positioned to manage the situation. “While we are concerned about the excessive rainfall, the sector has proven its ability to adapt, and we continue to monitor conditions closely,” he said.
The reassurance comes against the backdrop of a strong financial performance by the sugar industry in the previous year. In 2024/25, the ESA reported total revenue of E7.7 billion, an increase of E300 million from the E7.4 billion recorded the year before.
Speaking at a press conference held at Hilton Garden Inn in Mbabane, Nyamane revealed that sugar production reached 641,000 metric tonnes, reflecting improvements in both yields and operational efficiency. After operational costs amounting to E400 million were deducted, a total of E7.3 billion was distributed to growers and millers.
In accordance with the sugar industry agreement, 68.1 per cent of the revenue was allocated to growers, while 31.9 per cent went to millers. Nyamane described this as a notable improvement compared to previous years, particularly considering the volatile global sugar market.
“Although the increase in revenue may appear modest, it was achieved during a period of high sugar prices, making it a commendable outcome for the industry,” he said.
Nyamane also pointed out that some millers are involved in cane growing, allowing them to benefit from both production and processing. He further emphasised the industry’s strong relationship with local financial institutions, noting that finance costs for the year stood at E300 million.
“One of the key strengths of the sugar industry is the assurance given to farmers,” Nyamane said. “Once a farmer harvests, payment is guaranteed by the following year, enabling them to replant and sustain production.”
Overall, the ESA remains confident that, despite weather-related challenges, the sugar industry will continue to play a vital role in Eswatini’s economy, supporting livelihoods, exports and long-term agricultural stability.
(Courtesy Pic)
