Africa-Press – Eswatini. The 2025/2026 ploughing season, locally known as Phezukomkhono, officially commenced with optimism as widespread rainfall has blessed the nation, bringing hope for a successful harvest.
Minister of Agriculture, Honourable Mandla Tshawuka, called on farmers to take full advantage of the favourable weather conditions and begin planting early. He said this during the media briefing to announce the commencement of the ploughing season.
“The government is committed to supporting our hardworking farmers,” said Minister Tshawuka. “Through the National Maize Corporation (NMC), extension officers, and other initiatives, we aim to make farming more accessible and productive for everyone.”
Under the Input Subsidy Program, NMC has published a full list of accredited agro-dealers, now expanded across regions to ensure easier access. Farmers can select one crop input maize, beans, or sorghum without any cap, provided it fits within their budget. “This program is designed to uplift those who truly need assistance,” Minister Tshawuka emphasized.
The Minister mentioned that this year, 8 670 farmers successfully qualified for support a 28% increase from last year’s 6 079 beneficiaries.
To complement this, NMC has 153 functional tractors and has contracted 212 additional units from private operators, bringing the total to 365 tractors. Planters have increased from 15 last year to 45, with more still being secured to reach a target of 65 for the season. Specialized equipment is also available upon request.
Weather forecasts are favorable, encouraging farmers to begin early planting, particularly beans for the second leg of the season in February. “This aligns with our mandate to ensure food security for all Emaswati,” Minister Tshawuka noted.
Additionally, NMC CEO Mavela Vilane revealed that 515 hectares are ready for ploughing, with farmers able to access services on credit through the Hamba Ubuye program. Farmers will repay the hours ploughed when selling their maize to NMC, ensuring wider access to land preparation services.
Minister Tshawuka encouraged farmers to embrace the opportunities this season offers, urging them to work diligently while adhering to good practices. “With the government’s continued support and the dedication of our farmers, we are confident that this ploughing season will be successful,” he said.
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