By Phiwa Sikhondze and Sizwe Dlamini
The Minister of Agriculture, Mandla Tshawuka, has officially unveiled the new board of the Eswatini Water and Agricultural Development Enterprise (EWADE), entrusting them with the critical task of advancing Eswatini’s agricultural and water development agenda.
The press conference took place on Monday morning at the Ministry’s boardroom. The minister expressed confidence in the newly appointed board members, emphasizing their responsibility to drive the country toward food sovereignty, wealth creation, and the eradication of hunger.
He urged them to approach their mandate with dedication and integrity, stating that their leadership would be instrumental in fostering a self-sufficient and prosperous Eswatini.
The newly appointed board members are: Nomsa Dlamini-Tibane (Chairperson), Majawonkhe Dlamini, Busangaye Masina, Sifiso Khumalo, Siboniso Masilela, Muzi Siyaya, Sydney Simelane, Sifiso Shongwe, Busa Masina, and Dr. Samson Sithole EWADE (CEO).
As part of his directives, Minister Tshawuka outlined priority projects under EWADE, stressing their significance in transforming the agricultural landscape of Eswatini.
- Lower Usuthu Smallholder Irrigation Project (LUSIP II) – The minister called for an acceleration of this large-scale irrigation project, emphasizing its role in supporting smallholder farmers and ensuring water security.
- Mkhondvo-Ngwavuma Water Augmentation Project (MNWAP) – This project is set to unlock an eco-city, generate electricity, and support industrial development through the construction of factories. Tshawuka stressed the need for it to be completed “within time and budget.”
- Smallholder Agricultural Productivity Enhancement and Marketing Project (SAPEMP) – Funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) at E851 million, this initiative aims to improve agricultural productivity and market access for small-scale farmers.
- Youth Development Project – Supported by the World Bank, this project focuses on establishing training camps for young people, equipping them with business management skills, and fostering patriotism through agricultural engagement.
- Food Sovereignty Initiative – EWADE has allocated E40 million to plant maize and beans at a commercial scale. “That E40 million must go,” Tshawuka declared, reinforcing the urgency of the initiative.
Speaking on behalf of the board, Chairperson, Nomsa Dlamini-Tibane, reaffirmed their commitment to executing their governance and oversight roles effectively. She assured the minister and the nation that the board would work tirelessly to fulfill EWADE’s mandate, ensuring that these transformative projects are successfully implemented.