BY NELILE NXUMALO (INTERN)
MBABANE– The Eswatini Water and Agricultural Development Enterprise (EWADE) has invited qualified consulting firms to submit proposals for a feasibility study aimed at strengthening the Agriculture Integrated Information System (AIIS) in Eswatini.
According to a notice issued by the organisation, the consultancy will assess the current system and identify ways to improve the management, accessibility, and utilisation of agricultural information. This initiative is expected to enhance data-driven decision-making and support sustainable development within the country’s agricultural sector.
EWADE stated that the feasibility study will provide a thorough evaluation of the existing AIIS, highlighting areas where the system can be made more efficient and effective. The study will also offer recommendations to improve the collection, storage, and dissemination of agricultural data, ensuring that stakeholders—from government departments to farmers—have timely and accurate information to guide planning and development.
“Reliable agricultural information is critical for improving productivity, supporting rural livelihoods, and promoting sustainable practices,” said an EWADE spokesperson. “Through this study, we aim to modernise our data systems and provide a stronger foundation for the sector’s continued growth.”
The organisation has therefore called on experienced consulting firms to participate in the Request for Proposals (RFP) process by submitting bids for the consultancy services. Interested bidders are advised to access the bidding documents via EWADE’s official tender portal. Firms must register their intention to participate to obtain the documents and receive updates related to the tender.
EWADE also urged bidders to provide complete and accurate contact details during registration to ensure they receive all relevant information throughout the tender process. Consulting firms seeking additional guidance or clarification regarding the RFP are encouraged to submit enquiries through the official EWADE procurement email.
The enterprise plays a key role in implementing agricultural and rural development programmes across Eswatini. Its projects focus on enhancing water management, improving agricultural production, and supporting the livelihoods of rural communities. By strengthening the AIIS, EWADE aims to modernise data management practices and provide tools for better policy-making, investment planning, and sectoral coordination.
Improved agricultural information systems are expected to benefit a wide range of stakeholders, including farmers, cooperatives, government agencies, and development partners. By enabling access to accurate, up-to-date data, the AIIS will support informed decision-making, encourage innovation, and enhance the sustainability of agricultural practices.
The feasibility study will also explore ways to integrate emerging technologies and digital solutions into the AIIS, ensuring that Eswatini’s agricultural sector remains competitive and responsive to evolving challenges. Through these enhancements, the system will help monitor trends, track production outputs, and facilitate planning for food security, irrigation, and resource allocation.
EWADE emphasised that the consultancy is not just a technical exercise, but a critical step in the country’s broader strategy to modernise agriculture. By creating a more efficient and accessible information system, the organisation hopes to empower stakeholders, improve productivity, and strengthen rural communities.
The study is expected to provide a roadmap for future improvements to the AIIS, guiding EWADE and its partners in implementing measures that will drive growth, resilience, and sustainability within Eswatini’s agricultural sector.
“With this initiative, we are reinforcing our commitment to innovation and excellence in agricultural development,” said the spokesperson. “By leveraging data and technology, we aim to create a stronger, more resilient sector that benefits all emaSwati.”
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(Courtesy Pic)
