Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations FAO has reaffirmed its commitment to support Eswatini in strengthening drought preparedness and protecting rural livelihoods, as the country steps up efforts to implement its National Drought Plan.
The move was highlighted during a national workshop held on 25 November 2025, which brought together government officials, technical experts, development partners, and civil society.FAO Agri-food Systems and Investment Official Dr Cuthbert Kambanje emphasized the urgency of moving from strategy to practical action. He described drought as a “silent disaster” that quietly erodes development gains while straining farmers and testing national systems.
“Drought is often called a silent disaster. It does not roar in like a storm but it stays long enough to test our systems, strain our farmers, and quietly erode hard won development gains,” Dr Kambanje said. He added that the timing of the workshop was critical to translate plans into solutions that benefit communities most affected by climate stress.
Dr Kambanje highlighted the growing partnership between FAO and Eswatini, noting ongoing support for accrediting the Eswatini Environment Authority as a Direct Access Entity to the Green Climate Fund. This milestone will enable the country to access climate finance directly and at scale, strengthening national efforts to build drought resilience and climate-adaptive agriculture.
He also praised the wide participation at the workshop, which demonstrated the country’s commitment to turning policy into action. “When this many actors come together, you know the country is serious about turning plans into action, and this reflects the NKWE mantra used by His Majesty King Mswati III to inspire the nation to act,” Dr Kambanje said.
The workshop aimed to review progress on the National Drought Plan, identify remaining gaps, validate priority actions for 2026–2030, clarify institutional roles, and strengthen coordination among stakeholders. It also focused on building a strong investment case to mobilize both domestic and international resources.
FAO reaffirmed its dedication to working with Eswatini to safeguard rural livelihoods, strengthen drought preparedness, and advance sustainable, climate-resilient agriculture. The organization urged all stakeholders to transform the National Drought Plan from strategy into tangible results that directly benefit farmers and communities vulnerable to prolonged dry spells.
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