In a major stride for Eswatini’s agricultural and environmental sectors, the Eswatini Water and Agricultural Development Enterprise (EWADE) has been officially endorsed by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to lead the E76 million (USD 4 million) GEF-8 Child Project aimed at overhauling the country’s food systems.
This endorsement follows EWADE’s successful completion of the FAO’s Capacity Assessment, a rigorous evaluation that confirms its readiness to implement the large-scale project. The signing ceremony, held at Esibayeni Lodge on Thursday, marked a key milestone in the journey towards the full implementation of the transformative initiative.
The formal recognition of EWADE’s competency to manage such a significant project not only solidifies its standing within Eswatini’s agricultural landscape but also strengthens the country’s position in the fight for sustainable food systems.
The event was attended by Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Jane Mkhonta, alongside Principal Secretary, Khangeziwe Mabuza. EWADE was represented by Acting CEO and FAO Project Focal Point, Musa Masilela, who signed on behalf of the organization. FAO Eswatini Representative, Dr. Patrice Talla, signed on behalf of the FAO.
EWADE’s track record in successfully managing large-scale agricultural and water development projects played a pivotal role in its selection to spearhead the GEF-8 Child Project. The organization has repeatedly demonstrated its capacity to deliver impactful projects that improve livelihoods and drive rural development.
Acting CEO, Musa Masilela, emphasized the importance of this recognition: “Our nomination by the Ministry and the subsequent successful completion of the FAO Capacity Assessment is a testament to the strength of our governance, financial, and operational systems. This endorsement lays the groundwork for EWADE to attract even more funding and expand its role in similar initiatives. We are known for our speed and excellence in execution, and we are prepared to deliver this project with the highest standards.”
Transforming Eswatini’s Food Systems
The GEF-8 Child Project, titled “Catalyzing Transformation to Sustainable Food Systems in Eswatini,” is valued at over E76 million and focuses on promoting sustainability and climate resilience in Eswatini’s agricultural systems. It will be implemented under the supervision of the Ministry of Agriculture, with FAO as the executing agency.
The project will address critical challenges in maize-livestock systems, targeting key landscapes to mitigate land degradation, biodiversity loss, and unsustainable farming practices. With the project now entering its development phase, stakeholders are working on finalizing the concept note, which will be submitted to the FAO for ratification.
Once approved, EWADE will establish the necessary structures to manage the project, including steering and technical committees and a project management unit.
The GEF-8 Child Project is set to benefit approximately 25,000 people, particularly women, youth, and vulnerable groups. It aligns closely with EWADE’s mission to empower rural communities through sustainable agricultural practices while supporting Eswatini’s national development policies.
National Vision and Policy Alignment
The project’s objectives are closely aligned with Eswatini’s national development goals, including Vision 2022, which promotes sustainable farming practices, food security, and climate resilience. By addressing these key challenges, the GEF-8 Child Project contributes to Eswatini’s ambition to become more self-sufficient in food production while reducing reliance on imports.
In addition to its agricultural impact, the project supports Eswatini’s National Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan, which seeks to mitigate the effects of climate change and enhance economic growth through sustainable development.
Boosting National Capacities
EWADE’s success in securing accreditation for the GEF-8 project comes alongside the FAO’s efforts to assist Eswatini Bank and the Eswatini Environmental Authority (EEA) with obtaining accreditation from the Green Climate Fund (GCF). This will enable these institutions to access direct funding for future climate-related projects.
The combined efforts to bolster Eswatini’s institutional capacities, particularly through the GEF-8 project, highlight the growing trust in local institutions to lead transformative projects that drive sustainable development and secure a food-secure future for the country.
About FAO
The FAO is a specialized United Nations agency focused on eradicating hunger and ensuring global food security. With 195 members, including Eswatini, the FAO works in over 130 countries to promote sustainable agricultural practices and ensure that people have access to high-quality food for healthy lives.
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