By Mfanufikile Khathwane (Intern)
MBABANE – The National Maize Corporation (NMC) Board of Directors conducted a successful oversight visit to the Madulini Depot and Mahlalini Rural Development Area (RDA) in the Shiselweni region.
The visit was led by the Chairman of the Board, Patrik Myeni, and was accompanied by senior management and technical staff from NMC.
At the Madulini Depot, the Board assessed current operations, inspected available facilities, and evaluated the condition of the depot’s infrastructure. The visit aimed to ensure that the depot remains aligned with NMC strategic goals and continues to meet national food security standards.
Following the depot tour, the delegation proceeded to Mahlalini RDA, where NMC is responsible for overseeing the implementation of the Ministry of Agriculture tractor hire service. This program plays a vital role in supporting smallholder farmers by improving access to mechanized farming tools.
Mavela Vilane NMC CEO took the opportunity to brief the Board on the progress of the tractor hire service during the 2024/25 farming season. He noted that the initiative has been a major success, with tractor operating hours extended to 18 hours per day. This improvement has significantly enhanced the service’s efficiency and its impact in rural communities.
“Thanks to the extended working hours and improved coordination, Mahlalini RDA achieved an impressive 98% service efficiency rate this season,” said Vilane. “Out of the 2 709 total service hours recorded, 712 hours were provided by private contractors, while 1 869 hours were delivered by Ministry of Agriculture tractors,” he added.
The Board expressed satisfaction with the operational progress and reaffirmed their support for further investments in agricultural development and rural support programs.
The visit demonstrated NMC commitment to transparency, accountability, and service excellence in advancing national agricultural initiatives.
