Africa-Press – Eswatini. Eswatini’s agricultural excellence shone brightly on 28 November 2025 as the National Maize Corporation (NMC) hosted the much-anticipated NMC Farmers Awards at Esibayeni Lodge.
The ceremony, held as part of NMC’s 40th anniversary celebrations, honoured the farmers whose dedication and expertise continue to strengthen the nation’s food security.
The spotlight of the evening fell squarely on Johnson Sibonginkhosi of Sicunusa, who claimed the prestigious title of Top Maize Farmer 2025. Johnson delivered an exceptional performance this season, producing an extraordinary 258.08 tonnes of maize, the highest yield recorded, and earning himself E40 000 worth of farming inputs. His achievement firmly positioned him as one of the country’s most accomplished maize producers.
Upon receiving his award, a visibly moved Johnson expressed sincere appreciation for the support he has received along his journey.
“I want to thank Hamba Ubuye Commercial Maize Project for their unwavering support. Farming is not easy, and without strong backing it becomes even harder. This achievement shows what dedication, patience and teamwork can produce,” he said.
His remarks resonated across the venue, echoing the collective resilience, long hours and commitment shared by farmers nationwide.
Top 10 Maize Farmers – NMC Farmers Awards 2025
Johnson Sibonginkhosi – 258.08 tonnes (E40 000)
Dlamini Mgucisi – 130.64 tonnes (E30 000)
Mkhaliiphi Maphephete – 124.22 tonnes (E25 000)
Nhlengwta Emmanuel – 113.92 tonnes (E20 000)
Dlamini Thembisile – 104.12 tonnes (E12 000)
Shabangu Gcina – 98.56 tonnes (E10 000)
Ndlangamandla Johan – 95.68 tonnes (E8 000)
Makhubu-Nkambule Bongiwe – 95.08 tonnes (E7 000)
Dlamini Pholani – 86.04 tonnes (E6 000)
Manana Thoko – 65.86 tonnes (E6 000)
Collectively, these top performers contributed hundreds of tonnes of high-quality maize to the national market, reflecting excellence despite the unpredictable challenges faced within the agricultural sector.
Special Category Winners
Top Maize Producer – Farmer Company: Terrafetz Eswatini
Top Bean Farmer: Khubha Traders – 12.26 tonnes
Woman Farmer – Highest Maize Productivity: Nhlabatsti Thandi – 9.01 t/ha
Youth Farmer – Highest Maize Productivity: Langwenya Mpendulo – 6.14 t/ha
Highest Productivity 1st Position: Khumalo Mfanasibili – 11.1 t/ha
Highest Productivity 2nd Position: Tfwala Pat – 9.17 t/ha
Most Consistent Farmer: Dlamini Mgucisi
Best Private Tractor Owner: Swazi Trac
As NMC celebrated four decades of service, the awards reaffirmed its commitment to empowering farmers, strengthening food security and promoting sustainable, modernised agricultural practices across Eswatini. The corporation highlighted ongoing initiatives, including training programmes, timely grain payments, upgraded storage infrastructure and improved market access — all essential in enhancing farmers’ confidence and productivity.
In closing, Johnson delivered a powerful message that captured the spirit of the day:
“We farm because we believe in feeding our nation. When we support one another, we grow together.”
Through passion, perseverance and innovation, Eswatini’s farmers continue to demonstrate that the country’s agricultural future remains firmly in capable hands — one tonne of maize at a time.
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