BY PHESHEYA IAN KUNENE
MBABANE – Farmers who participated in last week’s Global GAP training workshop organised by the National Agricultural Marketing Board (NAMBoard) have hailed the initiative as highly beneficial.
The three-day training, sponsored by the European Union and the International Trade Centre (ITC), aimed to equip 60 farmers with essential skills to meet international standards and boost their access to export markets.
The participants appreciated the training, highlighting how it addressed critical agricultural production areas. One farmer from the Shiselweni region described the sessions as “eye-opening,” adding that the knowledge gained would revolutionise their farming practices.
“I now understand how to handle chemicals safely and protect both the environment and consumers. This training has given us tools to grow sustainably and meet export requirements,” the farmer shared.
The workshop covered various topics to ensure compliance with Global GAP standards, which are essential for accessing international markets. The farmers noted that the sessions on climate change adaptation and sustainable pest management, on the first day, provided practical solutions to everyday challenges.
“This was not just theory but it was practical and directly applicable,” said another farmer from the Lubombo region. With climate change becoming more unpredictable, we now have strategies to manage pests without harming the environment. That alone is a game-changer for us,” said Sicelo Maseko from the Hhohho Region.
The second day focused on first aid, health, and safety practices. The farmers who participated in this exercise highlighted the significance of this session, with many noting it was their first formal training on these topics. They said learning how to respond to emergencies and ensure safe working environments was something they have always needed for a long time.
While confirming the success of the training NAMBOARD Communications Officer Melusi Dlamini said on the final day, the sessions focused on food hygiene and chemical handling while adding that they were especially impactful.
A participant from Malkerns, Mbuso Vilakati, shared that they had previously underestimated the importance of hygiene and proper chemical use.
“We didn’t fully understand the risks involved. Now we know how to protect our workers, crops, and the consumers who buy our produce,” he said.
Vilakati agreed that the training marked a significant step toward their integration into NAMBoard’s Global GAP system.
“This training opened a door to new opportunities,” Vilakati shared
Furthermore, Dlamini noted that the farmers’ enthusiasm and commitment to implementing what they learned were encouraging.
Dlamini assured farmers about their commitment to supporting them through initiatives like these.
“This training is part of our broader mission to promote sustainable agriculture and ensure our farmers thrive in competitive markets,” he said.
As the farmers return to their fields equipped with new skills and insights, they remain optimistic about the future. Many shared their excitement about implementing the knowledge gained and improving their practices for both local and international markets.