Big Bend – Nisela farms has collaborated with Eswatini water and Agricultural Development Enterprise(EWADE),a Memorandum of Understanding(MoU) was signed today, between Dr Samson Sithole, Mr Jan Hendrik Botha, witnessed by other officials and media.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing will bring together leaders and shareholders from both organisation to outline the collaborative efforts designed to promote sustainable working collaboration between two entities. It partnership aims to Foster innovation, share expertise and implement sustainable solutions that will benefit the Agricultural sector and whole community in Eswatini.
Dr Samson Sithole (CEO) EWADE stated that, this “ partnership aligns seamlessly with EWADE’s strategic vision, especially under the Lower Usuthu Smallholder Irrigation Project Phase II LUSIP which is to ensure that each value chain has a robust and reliable private partner to anchor sustainability. We have identified Nisela Farms as a strong partner capable of driving the sustainability of the 500-hectare banana value chain.
The nearly complete LUSIP II packhouse has a capacity to handle 32 tons of banana produce, supporting approximately 100 hectares of banana cultivation. This collaboration will therefore help farmers efficiently reach various potential markets”.
He further mentioned that the “collaboration with Nisela Farms started during the implementation of the LUSIP I diversification program from 2013 to 2018. During that time, Nisela Farms played a pivotal role in operationalizing the banana packhouse, established by the farmer-led apex marketing company, Lusutfu ne Lubovane Luyasondla Fresh Produce, or “LnL.” Nisela Farm has been instrumental in this journey, providing critical support beyond expectations. Nisela Farms has continued to provide technical support through formal meetings with agricultural and engineering teams, focusing no improving infrastructural designs, including field, pack houses, and biosecurity measures. Offering technical advice on banana production and other crops such as cotton and Facilitating market access by introducing LUSIP II Farmer Companies (FCs) to their established markets.
They are also assisting farmers in developing their own marketing brands while offering themselves as a market until the FCs are fully established. This partnership represents more than just a business arrangement; it is a commitment to a sustainable and prosperous future for our communities. It aligns perfectly with EWADE’s current strategic roadmap (2023-2027) and supports the government’s development strategy, which emphasizes private sector engagement to drive economic development.
MD, Mr. Jan Hendrik Botha, asserts that Nisela Farms’ dedication to diversity and sustainable agriculture. Through precision agriculture, we are committed to increasing bean yields and feeding the kingdom. He also mentioned that “ Nisela has been part of Eswatini government for over a year now and his looking forward to collaboration with EWADE in producing good results”.
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