Farmers scoop massive E200k at NMC 40th anniversary
By Delisa Magagula
Farmers across Eswatini walked away with a combined E292 500 in prizes at the 2025 National Maize Corporation (NMC) Farmers Awards.
This was an event that also celebrated the corporation’s 40th anniversary and the 10th year of the awards programme.
The ceremony recognised top performers in maize and bean production during the 2024/25 season and rewarded farmers in multiple categories, including productivity, commercial output, bean production, tractor ownership, and women’s excellence in agriculture.
The highlight of the ceremony was the announcement of Sibonginkhosi Johnson, 32, from Sicunusa, as the Overall Top Farmer.
Johnson delivered 258.08 tonnes of maize to NMC this season, earning farming inputs valued at E40 000, a trophy, and a certificate. Speaking on stage, Johnson said his success was the result of discipline, strategic planning, and participation in the Hamba Ubuye Commercial Maize Project under EWADE.
“Maize farming is challenging, but perseverance pays off. Every seed planted is a commitment to feeding our communities and contributing to the nation’s food security,” Johnson stated.
Several other farmers collected multiple awards, increasing the total cash payout. Mfanasibili Khumalo received E35 000 for the Highest Maize Productivity award and also won the Best Private Tractor Owner category.
Thandi Nhlabatsi earned recognition as the Woman Farmer with the Highest Maize Productivity and also for third place in overall maize productivity. Mgucisi Dlamini and Mxolisi Myeni, the top bean farmer, also received multiple awards, reflecting their consistent performance and contribution to the sector.
In his keynote address, Minister for Agriculture Mandla Tshawuka emphasised the strategic importance of strengthening domestic food production.
He noted that Eswatini currently spends E1.1 billion importing maize and beans while losses linked to exports cost the nation E2.2 billion.
“Supporting NMC and empowering farmers is no longer optional; it is a national imperative. Our goal is to ensure reliable, sustainable production of maize, beans, and now soybeans while reducing costly import dependency,” Tshawuka said.
The Minister further announced E14 million in funding for agricultural projects to support inputs, logistics, and technical services, with an additional E26 million dedicated to enhancing production and distribution systems.
The Ministry set ambitious production targets for the 2025/26 season. Officials aim to achieve 110,000 metric tonnes of maize and 7,000 metric tonnes of beans, alongside a nationwide push for soybeans, supported by the newly commissioned processing plant in Matsapha.
Minister Tshawuka noted that the government’s focus on domestic production is intended to secure livelihoods, strengthen communities, and ensure food availability throughout the country.
Meanwhile, award-winning farmers noted that the recognition boosts both confidence and market credibility. Mgucisi Dlamini, who collected two awards, said the accolades provide financial and motivational support, allowing him to invest in more productive crops and expand operations.
Similarly, Mxolisi Myeni said recognition from NMC enhances his standing with buyers and traders, opening opportunities for improved commercial returns.
Worth noting the combined output of the top 10 farmers for the season reached 1,172.6 metric tonnes, representing a 28 per cent increase from the previous year. NMC stated that this growth reflects improved land preparation, higher adoption of quality seed varieties, better mechanisation, and expanded extension services.
Meanwhile, NMC Board Chairman Patrick Myeni reaffirmed the corporation’s commitment to improving productivity, supporting farmers, and stabilising national grain supplies.
“After 40 years, our mission remains steadfast: produce more, produce better, and strengthen food security for the Kingdom. These awards are proof that our farmers are ready for the challenges ahead,” Myeni said.
NMC said that over the past decade, it has expanded outreach to both smallholder and commercial farmers, improved storage and delivery systems, and strengthened partnerships with financiers, agro-dealers, and development agencies.
The awards are seen as an incentive structure that encourages farmers to increase productivity, adopt climate-smart practices, and transition from subsistence to commercial farming.
This year’s awards highlighted increasing participation from young farmers and women. Categories recognising these groups included Woman Farmer with Highest Maize Productivity, Youth Commercial Farmer, and Best Young Bean Producer.
NMC stated these categories aim to support youth empowerment, gender inclusion, and sustainable agriculture.
With government backing, expanding youth participation, and farmers like Johnson leading by example, the Ministry and NMC aim to further reduce dependence on imports, expand production, and improve market access.
NMC stated that local production of maize, beans, and soybeans is central to national food security and long-term sustainability, ensuring the Kingdom can meet its own needs while promoting commercial growth within the agricultural sector.
