BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE- As Eswatini works to ensure food security, agricultural experts say the country’s ability to meet its maize needs depends on two essentials, quality seeds and healthy soil. With a national requirement of 140 000 metric tons of maize need each year Experts argue that proper seed selection, soil testing, and good farming practices could significantly improve yields.
“Seed and soil are the foundation of successful farming,” said Bongani Mbatha, Senior Extension Officer at the Soil Testing Unit in the Ministry of Agriculture.
Sandile Makama, Head of the National Seed Authority, stressed the importance of seed quality and source. “A seed is living; it must be capable of producing a strong harvest. Avoid seeds stored in plastic bags,because they lose viability. Farmers should obtain seeds from reputable suppliers to ensure they thrive in the field.”
“Many farmers are unsure which seeds are suitable for their soil, and this misunderstanding can lower harvests considerably, he added”.
Planting techniques
He also emphasized proper planting techniques. “Seeds should not be planted too deep, placed in direct contact with fertilizers, or sown when the soil is overly wet. Moisture and timing are critical, and seeds should match the local climate, rainfall patterns, and be resistant to common diseases of that area.”
Soil testing
Soil health, Mbatha added, is just as critical. “Testing soil provides essential information about its pH whether acidic or alkaline and guides farmers on the right fertilizers or amendments to use.
The best time to test is after harvest, for example Maize it usually around May or June, giving farmers enough time to prepare for the next planting season. To collect a sample, take small amounts of soil from several different spots in your field. Mix these together in a clean container to create a composite sample, which provides an accurate picture of the field’s overall fertility and then take one or two cups to bring in the Malkerns research Center for testing”
Maize varieties
Experts also highlighted the role of maize varieties and pest management. Drought-tolerant and early-maturing maize seeds are increasingly recommended, especially in areas prone to erratic rainfall.
Pest management
Farmers are encouraged to monitor fields for common pests such as stem borers and aphids, and apply approved pesticides only when necessary, following integrated pest management practices. Crop rotation with legumes such as beans can also improve soil fertility and reduce pest pressure.
Government support
National Maize Corporation CEO Mavela Vilane highlighted the urgency of boosting production. “Eswatini needs 140 000 metric tons of maize annually. Last year, production reached only about 75 000 metric tons, slightly more than half of what is required. This year, our goal is to meet or exceed last year’s output.”
Recently the Minister of Agriculture Hon. Mandla Tshawuka encouraged farmers to take advantage of recent rains and begin ploughing, reaffirming Government support through the Input Subsidy Program and Tractor Hire Scheme. NMC has expanded its network of accredited agro-dealers across the country, and farmers can select one crop input maize, beans, or sorghum.
So far, 8 670 farmers have qualified, surpassing last year’s total. To support timely land preparation, NMC operates 153 tractors and has contracted 212 more from private operators, bringing the total number available to 365.
Storage and market access
Market access and post-harvest management are also critical. Experts advise farmers to store maize properly in ventilated silos or bags to prevent mould and aflatoxin contamination, which can affect food safety and market value. Connecting with NMC and other buyers early ensures farmers can sell surplus production at fair prices.
Boosting yields
Experts agree that combining quality seeds, healthy soil, climate-smart practices, pest management, and proper storage can increase maize yields, support national food security, and help Eswatini achieve its 140 000 metric tons target.
