BY ANDREW DLAMINI
MBABANE – The Ministry of Agriculture recently conducted a comprehensive training program for its extension offices at Esibayeni Lodge in Matsapha. The focus of the training was the implementation of an integrated agriculture system designed to streamline data collection for farmers across the country.
Speaking at the training, Xolani Dlamini, the director of veterinary services and representative of the principal secretary, emphasized the system’s potential to connect farmers directly to available markets. Dlamini highlighted the importance of accurate data in meeting the rising demand for sustainable agricultural products. He stated, “As the demand for sustainable product continues to rise to label data is key for the ministry and farmers to ensure improved product and also connect farmers to the market training our extension officers on this information system will help us achieve that.”
Beyond market connectivity, Dlamini also underscored the system’s role in advancing agricultural research, contributing to the overall improvement of farming practices in the nation.
Bheki Gama, a representative of the World Food Program, expressed support for the integrated agriculture system, aligning with the organization’s mandate to ensure food sustainability in Eswatini. Gama commented, “This system will help us know where we can get different produce. The main intention is that we must produce our food and be self-sustainable. This is why we have ventured into this technology. Having the farmers network will ensure we know the food that we have in the different regions.”
Highlighting the significance of agriculture in Eswatini, the World Food Program disclosed that 70% of the population still relies on farming. The integration of this advanced technology is expected to play a strong role in supporting and advancing the agricultural sector.
