Africa-Press – Eswatini. The recent rains have brought a timely boost to Eswatini’s planting season, encouraging thousands of farmers to take advantage of the National Maize Corporation’s (NMC) seed and tractor subsidy programmes.
NMC Chief Executive Officer, Mavela Vilane, reported that 5 598 farmers had already paid for the seed subsidy by the end of last week, contributing E32.4 million. “The rains have given us a good start, and farmers are responding with remarkable dedication. This is a clear sign that Emaswati are serious about farming and ensuring food security for the nation,” Vilane said.
With adequate moisture in many regions, farmers are now able to prepare and plant their fields without delay. Those who have paid for the subsidy can collect their seed inputs from local agro-dealers immediately. Areas with less rainfall will be attended to later, once the soil is ready for cultivation.
In addition to seeds, the government has provided E10 million for tractor support, easing land preparation. So far, farmers have booked 12 624 tractor hours, amounting to E6.9 million, leaving more funds available for additional support.
For many smallholder farmers, the combination of timely rains and subsidy support is transforming the planting season. A farmer from Lubombo said, “The rains came at the right time. With the seed subsidy, I can plant on all my land and even have surplus to sell.” Another farmer in Shiselweni described the tractor subsidy as a “game changer,” allowing them to plough fields in hours rather than weeks.
Vilane emphasized that the season’s success will rely on both favorable weather and the commitment of farmers. “The rains have set the stage, but it is the dedication of our farmers and the support systems in place that will determine the harvest,” he said.
The NMC continues to work closely with farmers to ensure that the Kingdom of Eswatini can achieve strong food production this season, strengthened by both nature’s gift of rain and strategic government support.
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