EZULWINI – Twenty-one million Emalangeni has been awarded to 16 new recipients of the Eswatini Agricultural Development Fund (EADF).
This was disclosed by the Minister of Agriculture, Mandla Tshawuka, speaking at an EADF beneficiaries Training Workshop at Sibane Sami Hotel.
The minister said a total of E32 million has now been disbursed under this fund which is managed by Eswatini bank, noting that there is a strong demand for it in Eswatini.
It was announced that the total approved loans to date under the EADF amount to E31,153,787.49, with a total guarantee of E33,957,628.36.
This includes E9,861,727.24 (guarantee of E10,749,282.69) for Batch 1 (February-May) and E21,292,060.25 (guarantee of E23,208,345.67) for Batch 2 (July).
These figures represent more than just financial support; they signify changed lives, launched businesses, and strengthened communities, demonstrating a joint commitment to financial inclusion for all Liswati.
Tshawuka said this proves that Emaswati are ready to work and that the ministry was already fulfilling His Majesty’s “Nkwe” vision.
The EADF is a testament to His Majesty’s government’s commitment, through the Ministry of Agriculture, to empowering all Emaswati, from smallholder farmers to agripreneurs, across the entire agricultural value chain. This initiative aims to unlock opportunities, drive innovation, and build resilience in an important sector of the economy.
The fund marks a key milestone in its agricultural transformation journey.
At the ceremony, Eswatini Bank expressed gratitude to the Ministry for entrusting them with the management of this fund and other strategic financing instruments aimed at uplifting the agricultural sector and improving livelihoods.
Eswatini Bank is particularly focused on financing youth and women in agriculture, recognizing their potential to drive innovation, sustainability, and growth in Eswatini. Additionally, the fund promotes climate-smart agricultural practices by supporting water-efficient irrigation systems, soil health management, and renewable energy solutions for farming communities.
Beneficiaries were reminded that they are entering into a partnership with Eswatini Bank and the nation, receiving not just financing but also education and ongoing guidance to build sustainable and thriving enterprises. They were encouraged to nurture this funding like a seed, with discipline, innovation, and vision, to feed their families and transform their communities.
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