Ezulwini – The second annual Eswatini Business and Investment Forum has reinforced the kingdom’s resolve to transform its agri-food systems and mobilise large-scale investments, with a strong focus on youth empowerment and food sovereignty.
The two-day event, held from yesterday, ending today at the Happy Valley Hotel and Conference Centre, brought together government leaders, the private sector, development partners and the diplomatic community to explore opportunities for collaboration and investment in the sector.
Speaking at the opening, Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Subregional Coordinator for Southern Africa and FAO Representative for Eswatini, Patrice Talla, hailed the forum as ‘a catalyst for change’ that aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Eswatini’s broader development agenda.
Talla made his presentation virtually, as he could not attend the forum due to other commitments.
“This platform fosters deeper collaboration and renewed commitment to securing a food-secure future for all,” Talla said, commending the Government of Eswatini for its leadership in advancing the second-generation National Agricultural Investment Plan (ENAIP 2.0) and the establishment of the Eswatini Agricultural Development Fund (EADF).
Talla praised the EADF, created with the FAO’s support, as a catalytic instrument that derisks investments in grassroots enterprises, smallholder farmers and organised value chains.
He said FAO is already showcasing Eswatini’s model to other countries and pledged continued technical assistance to expand its financial instruments.
“Eswatini has adopted a proven business model that has empowered smallholder farmers worldwide,” Talla noted, calling on multilateral and private sector partners to support the fund.
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