By Lwazi Dlamini
Families relocated to pave the way for the construction of the E2.6 billion Mpakeni Dam are now reaping the rewards of an ambitious agricultural transformation.
Thanks to extensive support from the Eswatini Water and Agricultural Development Enterprise (EWADE), these families have transitioned from subsistence farming to commercial maize production, setting the stage for record-breaking harvests and sustainable economic growth.
Resettled in Thezane, Makhava, Lulakeni, and KaMngayi, the farmers have been provided with critical resources to ensure their long-term viability in commercial agriculture.
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EWADE’s intervention highlights its dedication to sustainable development, ensuring that displaced families do not just recover but also thrive in their new environment.
A significant investment in agricultural inputs has fueled this success. EWADE allocated over E6.4 million towards land preparation for maize farming, complemented by farm inputs valued at more than E0.5 million.
n total, 60.75 hectares were cultivated, benefiting over 84 households. The farmers received essential support, including basal fertilizers, seeds, pesticides, top-dressing fertilizers, and tractor services—key elements in boosting productivity.
EWADE’s Corporate Communications Manager, Nokwazi Hlophe, emphasized that the initiative underscores the organization’s commitment to transforming lives through sustainable agriculture.
“We are not just allocating land; we are equipping resettled families with modern farming techniques and essential resources to secure their future in commercial agriculture,” Hlophe said.
She noted that with the level of support extended, these families are now on the path to achieving agricultural independence while also contributing to Eswatini’s food security and reducing dependency on imports.
Among the success stories emerging from this initiative is that of Solomon Mjikijelwa Ginindza, a farmer relocated from Mpakeni to Thezane.
Standing in his thriving maize fields, Ginindza expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to engage in large-scale farming.
“This season promises my highest yield ever. I am now preparing to build a larger maize crib to properly store my harvest before shelling.
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We are confident that our surplus will be sold to the National Maize Corporation (NMC), allowing us to reinvest in the next planting season,” he said.
Similarly, Make Dlamini lauded EWADE for its transformative support. “This is the first time I have witnessed such robust maize production.
The agricultural training and inputs have made a significant difference, and I now understand the importance of proper fertilization techniques.
I am confident we will harvest enough for consumption and generate income from surplus sales,” she said.
Another beneficiary, Elizabeth Dlamini, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing how the use of fertilizers had increased her yields significantly.
“This year, I am expecting my highest yield ever. I have learned the impact of proper crop nutrition, and I am grateful to EWADE for the support. Now, I can confidently participate in commercial maize farming,” she said.
The thriving maize fields also drew the attention of National Maize Corporation CEO Mavela Vilane, who visited the farms in January.
During his tour, Vilane commended the farmers for their hard work and assured them of NMC’s commitment to purchasing their surplus harvest after shelling.
He also encouraged them to consider growing beans as part of a diversification strategy to bolster the nation’s food security.
Traditional authorities have also acknowledged EWADE’s impact. Chief Gasawangwane expressed his gratitude for the initiative’s success.
“EWADE has not only helped these families recover but has ensured they are better off than before.
The structured resettlement and livelihood restoration programmes have transformed lives and strengthened Eswatini’s food security.
Their commitment to going beyond simple compensation is commendable,” he said.
As each season passes, the success of EWADE’s efforts becomes increasingly evident.
The resettled farmers, once facing uncertainty, now stand as key contributors to Eswatini’s vision of agricultural self-sufficiency.
This transformation underscores the power of strategic investment in agriculture – changing lives, strengthening economies, and laying the foundation for long-term sustainability.
