Mbabane – Minister of Agriculture Mandla Tshawuka has announced that 6,079 Emaswati farmers benefited from the government’s input subsidy programme last season.
During the 2024 cropping season, farmers paid E400 per tractor hour while the government subsidized E180, accounting for 31 percent of the cost. Tshawuka noted that despite rising input prices, the government continued to cushion farmers, particularly with the beans package, which increased from the budgeted E9,200 to E11,400. The E2,200 difference was fully covered by the government.
He confirmed that tractor hire rates will remain unchanged in the upcoming season, with farmers paying E400 per hour and the government contributing E180. Farmers will, however, be required to register with extension officers before making payments to ensure responsible use of the subsidy.
“We recognize the inconvenience caused by limited Rural Development Areas (RDAs), which is why we are working towards digitizing this process to improve access. In the future, registration will be compulsory,” Tshawuka explained.
The minister stressed that the programme plays a critical role in supporting smallholder farmers, especially during tough economic times and under the pressures of climate change. “The input subsidy programme is designed to alleviate these pressures, enabling farmers to invest in their crops and support their families,” he said.
Tshawuka added that agriculture remains vital to Eswatini’s economy, employing a large share of the population and providing food security for households. He acknowledged challenges faced by farmers, including access to quality inputs, fluctuating market prices, and climate-related risks, but assured that the subsidy programme directly addresses these issues.
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