Africa-Press – Eswatini. Eswatini youth have sealed a groundbreaking deal with South Africa’s Rand Agri to boost local farming and cut the nation’s E35 million potato import bill.
The partnership, spearheaded by the Velezizweni Youth Cooperative, was launched in Mpumalanga, Middelburg, where a delegation of young entrepreneurs, supported by senior agribusiness leaders, engaged Rand Agri, one of SADC’s largest maize suppliers.
Chairperson Ellis Dlamini said the collaboration will serve as a major economic boost for the kingdom.
“This is not just about us as Velezizweni youth, it is about creating an asset for the entire nation. The partnership will bring direct markets, upskilled youth, commercial-scale farming of maize, beans, and potatoes, plus opportunities for improved exports and value-addition,” he explained.
Dlamini stressed that the country’s potato imports, costing around E35 million annually for over 10,700 tonnes, are unsustainable.
“Through this clean collaboration, we want those millions to be spent locally, supporting our own farmers. We want to grow, process, and buy our own potatoes as a country,” he said.
The pilot project is anchored on skills transfer, apprenticeships, youth incubation, direct farming, and an outgrower model designed to empower young people in rural areas.
“Young entrepreneurs need the right support, mentorship, and resources to turn potential into progress,” Dlamini said.
“Rural entrepreneurship is key because it creates jobs in agriculture, handicrafts, and renewable energy. We are proving that rural innovators can shape a sustainable future.”
Adding to the excitement, Sandile Nxumalo from the Regional Leadership Centre for Southern Africa, Eswatini Chapter confirmed that 170 hectares of land have already been secured.
“This partnership opens doors to employment and apprenticeship opportunities while strengthening Eswatini’s agricultural footprint,” Nxumalo said.
“We are also working closely with the Ministry of Agriculture to ensure long-term growth and sustainability.”
The delegation also included representatives from Green Leaf Ventures, who echoed the commitment to creating a new generation of agri-business leaders.
Dlamini concluded with a rallying call:
“As youth, we are architects of tomorrow’s world. With access to decent work, our energy and creativity can drive growth and transform rural communities. This partnership is proof that Eswatini’s youth are ready to rise.”
For More News And Analysis About Eswatini Follow Africa-Press
