BY NOKUPHILA NXUMALO (INTERN)
MBABANE– The Government of the Kingdom of Eswatini has officially launched the Goat Industry Enhancement Project, a transformative E51.5 million initiative aimed at improving goat farming, strengthening food security and enhancing livelihoods for rural farmers across the country.
The project, which will run from 2026 to 2030, will be implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture in partnership with the Government of Taiwan through the International Cooperation and Development Fund (ICDF).
According to information shared on the Ministry of Agriculture’s Facebook page, the initiative will focus on enhancing goat productivity, establishing a sustainable goat genetic improvement system and developing a stronger goat value chain through improved marketing of goats and goat products.
The project is expected to help address challenges affecting the sector, including inbreeding, poor nutrition, diseases and the effects of climate change, while creating opportunities for employment, income generation and national economic growth.
Speaking during the official launch, Minister of Agriculture Hon. Mandla Tshawuka said goats continue to play a significant role in Eswatini’s socio-economic development, particularly in rural communities where many households depend on livestock farming for survival.
“Goats play a crucial role in our country’s socio-economic structure. They are a source of livelihood for many rural households, where the majority of the country’s 525000 goats are reared,” said Tshawuka.
He further highlighted that goats are becoming increasingly important because of their resilience and ability to adapt to harsh climate conditions while requiring fewer resources compared to other livestock.
The Minister expressed appreciation to the Government of Taiwan and the European Union for their continued support towards agricultural development initiatives in Eswatini.
He noted that through the Eswatini Livestock Value Chain Development Programme, the European Union would contribute towards the procurement of equipment for a Goat Artificial Insemination Centre, which forms an important part of the project.
The Government of Taiwan has also supported several agricultural initiatives in Eswatini, including the Pig Industry Enhancement Project, the Commercialization of Aquaculture Production Project and the Taiwan Africa Vegetable Initiative Project.
The Goat Industry Enhancement Project is expected to improve productivity, strengthen the livestock sector and create sustainable economic opportunities for farmers across the country.
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(Courtesy Pic)
