Eswatini’s youth and women farmers thrive under FAO-led resilience project

From the vegetable fields of Luve to the highlands of Nkhaba, Eswatini’s youth and women farmers are writing a new chapter in the country’s agricultural story. Supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) through the Technical Cooperation Project (TCP/ESW/3903), young smallholders are shifting from subsistence to commercial production, building resilience against climate shocks, and accessing new markets through innovation.

In partnership with the Government of Eswatini and the National Agricultural Marketing Board (NAMBoard), FAO is helping farmers adopt protected agriculture technologies, such as shade nets and greenhouses, that safeguard crops from harsh weather, reduce losses, and allow year-round production. The initiative falls under FAO’s One Country One Priority Product (OCOP) approach, which promotes sustainable production and value chain development for strategic crops.

“Our collaboration with the Government and NAMBoard is transforming smallholder farming into a viable business that sustains livelihoods and supports national food security,” said Cuthbert Kambanje, FAO Subregional Agrofood Systems Investment Policy Support Consultant.

Through the project, youth and women-led cooperatives have been trained in modern horticultural practices, marketing, and quality standards. Many have since been absorbed by NAMBoard’s commercial supply chains, supplying supermarkets and export buyers with high-quality produce such as peppers and lettuce.

Smallholder farmer at Luve, Eswatini shows a vegetable (lettuce) head in a women-led support group.  ©FAO/Sibusiso Dlamini 

In Nkhaba, Hhohho region, a youth-led cooperative demonstrates the success of this approach. “Protected agriculture allows us to produce even during dry spells. We no longer fear losing everything to drought,” said a local farmer proudly displaying her harvest of bell peppers.

The project also strengthens extension services through NAMBoard, ensuring continuous technical support for smallholders. The results have been transformative, enhanced food security, improved household incomes, and empowered youth who now see agriculture as a dignified and profitable career.

FAO’s work in Eswatini supports the country’s broader goals under Agenda 2030 and Vision 2022, particularly in achieving SDG 2 – Zero Hunger. By focusing on market access and climate-smart production, the initiative is building resilience and economic opportunity for rural communities. Turning partnership into progress.