BY NOKWANDA DLAMINI(INTERN)
MBABANE – Farmers gathered on Monday, April 13, 2026, for an educational session led by the Crop Storage Department, where they were trained on proper maize harvesting practices aimed at improving yields and reducing post-harvest losses.
Crop Storage official Cyril Dlamini told the farmers to adopt proper harvesting and storage practices to protect yields and prevent losses.Addressing the farmers during the session, Dlamini explained that knowing the right time to harvest maize is critical for maintaining both quality and quantity. He noted that farmers should closely monitor their crops as they mature.
“Once the maize grains start turning brown, that is a clear sign that the maize is ready to harvest,” said Dlamini. “Delaying harvesting at this stage can expose the crop to pests, diseases, and even adverse weather conditions, which can reduce the overall yield.”
He further highlighted that poor handling methods during harvesting can also negatively impact production. Dlamini cautioned farmers against the common practice of throwing maize, describing it as damaging and counterproductive.
“In order to avoid decreasing the yield, farmers should avoid using the method of throwing maize when harvesting. This practice damages the grains and reduces their quality,” he said.
The officer also stressed the importance of proper storage techniques after harvesting. He encouraged farmers to use lihawu, a powder that protects maize from being attacked by insects, noting its effectiveness in preserving maize when used correctly.
“We encourage farmers to use lihawu when storing their maize because it helps in maintaining the quality of the grain and reduces post-harvest losses,” Dlamini explained.
In addition, he emphasized the need for farmers to ensure that maize is sufficiently dry before storage. According to him, moisture content plays a critical role in determining how long maize can be safely stored.
“The moisture content should always be below 13 percent before storage. If the maize is stored with high moisture, it can develop mould, which can spoil the entire harvest,” he warned.
The training forms part of the Ministry’s broader efforts to equip farmers with essential knowledge and practical skills to improve productivity and ensure food security. Farmers who attended the session welcomed the guidance, saying it would help them improve their harvesting and storage practices.
#AgricultureEswatini #FoodSecurity #MaizeFarming #FarmerEducation
