The Eswatini Water and Agricultural Development Enterprise (EWADE) has teamed up with Nisela Farms, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to drive the successful launch of new farming ventures within the 500-hectare LUSIP II Irrigated scheme.
This collaboration will see EWADE and Nisela Farms providing crucial technical support to newly established farming companies. EWADE has been instrumental in designing and implementing bulk infrastructure and irrigation for these ventures, while Nisela Farms will oversee the banana crop establishment and operations, leveraging their extension team and consulting with service providers.
The MoU signing took place on Thursday at Nisela Farms in Big Bend. EWADE’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Samson Sithole, and Nisela Farms’ Managing Director, Jan Hendrik Botha, were present.
Botha expressed gratitude to EWADE, highlighting the partnership’s role in promoting sustainable agricultural practices and effective water management in Eswatini. “We are grateful for EWADE’s recognition and partnership. By growing communities, we enhance the economy and transform lives through collaboration. Our ongoing work with EWADE on the LUSIP 1 project has been fruitful, and we are excited to expand our banana business,” Botha remarked.
EWADE’s LUSIP II Project Manager, Gcina Ginindza, praised Nisela Farms for their contributions to the LUSIP 1 Project, particularly in the banana sector. “Nisela Farms has excelled in banana cultivation, and we value our collaboration with private enterprises that positively impact our project communities,” Ginindza stated.
The MoU outlines a range of collaborative efforts aimed at fostering innovation, sharing expertise, and implementing sustainable agricultural solutions in Eswatini. Key components of the agreement include:
Nisela Farms’ Responsibilities:
- Design and training for infrastructure
- Establishment and management of banana crops
- Soil analysis and fertilizer recommendations
- Capacity building through structured training and field demonstrations
- Regular site inspections and agronomic assistance
- Support for export logistics and market linkages
- Assistance with industry certifications (e.g., GLOBAL GAP, HACCP)
- Provision of equipment rental and donations
EWADE’s Responsibilities:
- Water support for irrigation during drought conditions
- Infrastructure development and construction supervision
- Social governance support
- Partnership on 300 hectares of land at Nisela Farms
- Assistance in securing operational financing for farmers
- Continuous project progress updates
This partnership aims to enhance the agricultural sector in Eswatini by implementing innovative and sustainable solutions that benefit both the industry and the local community.
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