Minister urges youth, communities to unlock opportunities through land rehabilitation
By Mfanufikile Khathwane
SIGCAWENI – The Kingdom of Eswatini has reaffirmed its commitment to restoring the nation’s degraded land, setting an ambitious target to rehabilitate 115 000 hectares by the year 2030. This initiative aligns with global efforts under the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD).
Speaking during the national commemoration of UNCCD Day, Minister of Agriculture Hon. Mandla Tshawuka emphasized the urgency of sustainable land management, especially in the face of rising threats such as soil erosion, illegal forest harvesting, and uncontrolled veld fires.
Held under the global theme “Restore Land, Unlock Opportunities”, the event took place at Sigcaweni High School under Gilgal Inkhundla in the Lubombo region. It showcased a blend of ceremony and action, with communities demonstrating real progress in restoring degraded land.
“This year’s theme reminds us that when the land suffers, we all suffer. But when we restore it, we unlock a world of new opportunities,” said the Minister, highlighting the importance of land as a foundation for biodiversity, food security, water access, and economic development.
The Minister toured a site In Sigcaweni where 15 hectares of severely eroded land, including a three-meter-deep donga, had been rehabilitated through community efforts. The restoration involved planting grass and trees, fencing, and building check dams to divert water and prevent further degradation.
He commended the community for their proactive stance and revealed that their next phase involves planting fruit trees to ensure long-term income and sustainability.
The Minister also addressed recent agricultural challenges, particularly the outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), urging public cooperation in adhering to movement restrictions. He announced that national vaccination efforts would begin the following Monday.
Hon. Tshawuka extended heartfelt thanks to stakeholders who supported the land rehabilitation initiative, including the Ministry of Agriculture, Eswatini Environment Authority, Eswatini Environment Fund, and local traditional leaders. He praised traditional authorities for symbolically contributing cattle in support of the day’s celebrations.
