The National Agricultural Marketing Board (NAMBoard) has announced the introduction of compulsory registration for all horticulture farmers in Eswatini under the Eswatini Horticulture Information System (EHIS), a move aimed at strengthening coordination, improving market access, and enhancing data-driven decision-making within the sector.
According to a public notice issued by NAMBoard, the mandatory registration will officially commence on May 1, 2026 in line with the provisions of the NAMBoard Act No. 13 of 1985 and the 2023 NAMBoard regulations. The directive applies to all horticulture farmers, regardless of whether they are currently contracted with NAMBoard or operating independently.
The EHIS platform has been introduced as a strategic tool to modernise and streamline the country’s horticulture industry. Through this system, NAMBoard seeks to improve the collection and integrity of agricultural data, while also increasing the visibility of locally produced crops in domestic and regional markets.
In addition, the system is expected to unlock greater market opportunities for farmers, enabling them to connect more efficiently with buyers and participate more competitively in supply chains. Authorities also highlight that EHIS will play a critical role in strengthening national production planning and coordination, ensuring that supply aligns more effectively with market demand.
Food safety and quality compliance remain a central pillar of the initiative. By registering through EHIS, farmers will be better positioned to meet established standards, while also benefiting from coordinated local sourcing efforts and improved monitoring of production trends across the country.
To accommodate farmers with varying levels of access to digital tools, NAMBoard has introduced two registration options. Farmers may complete a self-registration process via the EHIS online platform or mobile application, or opt for assisted registration, where NAMBoard officials will provide direct support in capturing and submitting the required information.
As part of the registration process, farmers will be required to submit detailed information, including personal and contact details, farm characteristics, crop types, production systems, and projected output volumes. Information on market preferences and support needs will also be collected to better tailor interventions and support programmes.
NAMBoard has emphasised that compliance with the directive is not optional. The organisation noted that the registration exercise is essential for improving market coordination, protecting local production, and ensuring that farmers fully benefit from opportunities within the horticulture value chain.
For further information and assistance, farmers have been encouraged to contact NAMBoard’s Head of Agri-Business.