Africa-Press – Eswatini. Poor eating habits are becoming a major cause of illness in Eswatini, as health and nutrition experts call on families to return to safer, healthier food choices.Home Econom ics Officer at the Ministry of Agriculture, Nontsikelelo Ngema, has encouraged emaSwati to prioritise safe, nutritious meals to protect themselves from disease and live longer, healthier lives.
“Kudla lesikudlako ngiko lokusibangela tifo,” she said, stressing that many illnesses are linked to what people eat daily.
Nontsikelelo Ngema said preparing food properly was key to preserving nutrients and improving health. She encouraged families to reduce the use of too much cooking oil, salt and sugar, saying simple meals such as boiled foods, vegetables and fresh local produce were better for the body.
She said healthy eating did not have to be expensive, as families could make use of local foods readily available in their communities.
The Home Economics Department under the Ministry of Agriculture continues to support communities by teaching proper food preparation, nutrition and practical household skills. The department also encourages every home to have a backyard garden, keep small livestock and plant fruit trees to improve food security.
Ngema said home gardens could help families easily access spinach, other green vegetables and fresh produce, while also cutting household food costs.
She further emphasised the importance of cleanliness in the home, saying safe food must also be prepared and eaten in a clean environment to prevent disease.
“We must make sure our homes are clean and our food is prepared safely, especially for children,” she said.
Health experts say unhealthy diets are contributing to the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Eswatini, including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke.
According to health and nutrition reports, obesity is becoming a serious public health concern in the country, with increasing cases among adults and a worrying rise among children and adolescents.
The Ministry of Health has also encouraged families to make practical lifestyle changes such as exercising for at least 30 minutes daily, drinking more clean water, reducing sugary drinks and processed foods, and eating balanced meals rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains.
Parents and caregivers have also been urged to prepare healthy lunchboxes for schoolchildren to support concentration, growth and better learning outcomes.
Nutrition experts recommend lunchboxes that include energy-giving foods such as rice, sweet potatoes or phuthu, body-building foods like beans or eggs, and fruits or vegetables, accompanied by safe drinking water.
As Eswatini continues to fight the growing burden of nutrition-related illnesses, officials say small daily changes in homes can make a lasting difference.
The message from experts is clear: eating healthy today is an investment in a stronger, healthier future for the nation.
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