A humble root vegetable is emerging as one of Eswatini’s strongest weapons in the fight against food imports and food insecurity.
The National Agricultural Marketing Board (NAMBoard) has identified carrots as one of the country’s most imported vegetables,
presenting a significant opportunity for local farmers to increase production, reduce imports and improve household incomes.
With an estimated gross profit of E43 360.63 from just half a hectare after production costs, 
the crop is proving that small-scale farming can deliver substantial financial returns when managed correctly.
NAMBoard Chief Executive Officer Bhekizwe Maziya said carrots fit squarely within the organisation’s strategy of reducing the country’s dependence on imported produce through organised local production.
“Carrots are among the crops where Eswatini farmers can compete strongly if they plant at the right time, meet quality standards and supply consistently.
The market exists; what we need is disciplined production, proper planning and farmers who are ready to grow for the market,” said Maziya.
To encourage production, carrots qualify for both the NAMBoard input subsidy and the revolving fund loan, enabling farmers to access finance for seed, fertiliser, chemicals, irrigation and other essential production inputs.
However, successful carrot production requires careful planning and disciplined farming practices.
NAMBoard advises farmers to prepare land thoroughly by ploughing to a depth of at least 30 centimetres to encourage proper root development.
The crop performs best in loose, deep, and stone-free sandy loam soils, as compact or rocky ground results in stunted, forked or misshapen roots that are unsuitable for the commercial market.
Farmers are also encouraged to select varieties suited to the season. Nantees is recommended for winter production because of its uniform roots and sweet flavour,
while Nativa performs well during summer due to its heat tolerance, adaptability and high yields.
Commercial producers are further encouraged to establish raised beds to improve drainage,
adopt drip irrigation to conserve water and reduce disease pressure, and apply mulch to retain soil moisture while protecting seedlings during germination.
NAMBoard also recommends crop rotation with crops such as legumes or maize to improve soil health and minimise pest build-up.
Farmers are advised to avoid applying fresh manure shortly before planting, as it can produce hairy or deformed roots, while effective weed control during the crop’s early growth stages remains essential.
To meet market requirements, harvested carrots must be clean, firm and of acceptable commercial quality.
The leaves should remain green and fresh, snapping easily when broken, while the roots should measure at least 100 millimetres in length.
Speaking on behalf of farmers, Eswatini National Agricultural Union (ESNAU) Chief Executive Officer Tammy Dlamini welcomed the opportunity but stressed that production alone would not guarantee profitability.
“Farmers are willing to produce, but profitability depends on more than planting. They need access to affordable inputs, irrigation, finance,
technical advice and reliable market information. If those systems work together, carrots can become a serious cash crop for both smallholder and commercial farmers,” said Dlamini.
Beyond their commercial value, carrots also contribute to improved nutrition. They are rich in Vitamin A,
contain antioxidants, provide dietary fibre, support healthy vision and overall wellbeing, while remaining low in calories.
NAMBoard has urged farmers to register their production plans and align planting with market demand to prevent oversupply.
The board says systems such as the Eswatini Horticulture Information System play an important role in monitoring production, forecasting harvests and guiding import management.
With Eswatini intensifying efforts to strengthen food security and reduce reliance on imported vegetables,
carrots are increasingly being recognised as a profitable crop which can create income opportunities while strengthening the country’s agricultural sector. With proper planning,
technical support and market discipline, even half a hectare of carrots could become a valuable business for local farmers.
