MBABANE – Over 900 delegates have registered for Eswatini’s upcoming regional African Union Seed Summit, approaching the target of 1500 participants despite early technical challenges.
Minister for Agriculture Mandla Tshawuka confirmed that 984 delegates have officially registered for the three-day gathering, scheduled to run from October 5 to 7. He added that 20 ministers have already been confirmed.
He expressed optimism over the turnout and noted that the surge demonstrates strong commitment from regional stakeholders, guaranteeing that the final tally will comfortably cross the 1000-delegate milestone over the weekend.
He expressed deep gratitude that the preparations regarding seed systems which address critical seed development across Eswatini are progressing smoothly.
“We have reviewed the registration numbers to see how many people have registered, and they indicate encouraging progress. Although there were some initial technological difficulties with registration, those who are coming are clearly determined to be present in the country,” he said.
Tshawuka highlighted that the summit will not leave the country behind, particularly as His Majesty King Mswati III will participate directly.
“Regarding this summit, we are pleased that it will not leave the country behind, as His Majesty the King himself will be present on the second day. This means we will start on Monday and carry out the preliminary work and then His Majesty the King will arrive to officially open the event on Tuesday,” he said.
Addressing the current registration figures against initial goals, Tshawuka noted, “We are delighted that despite significant technological challenges during registration, the numbers we currently have show that 984 people have registered. He mentioned that their initial target was to reach 1500 people, and they hope that as the days progress and through the coming weekend, people will continue to register so they can reach that figure.
“We also encourage those who cannot attend in person that live streaming will be available so they can watch how the work is progressing across the country,” he said.
Tshawuka added that the summit will place the country on the global map.
He stated that 20 ministers from other countries have already confirmed their attendance.
“Four of them represent Foreign Affairs from their respective countries, while 16 are Ministers of Agriculture. We hope these numbers will continue to rise, and by the time the day arrives, we might have over 20,” he said.
Tshawuka issued a broad call to action to corporate and financial institutions.
“Furthermore, we would like to take this opportunity to invite and appeal to business leaders those with a passion for agriculture or an interest in the sector. Whether you are farmers, distributors of farm produce, agricultural financiers, or buyers of agricultural products, banks we are urging them to set aside agricultural funds to support the country for this upcoming summit,” he said.
To support the event’s execution, the Ministry is currently seeking E10.7 million in total budget funding. Tshawuka called directly on private stakeholders to step forward with financial commitments to share the financial responsibilities.
“We kindly request pledges to ensure that the financial burden on the government is lightened. We know the government is committed to supporting this initiative financially, but we wish to see funding coming from the private sector as well, so that the government does not have to carry the full weight alone,” he said.
Tshawuka urged private partners to lend a hand because, ultimately, everything the government does is meant to assist the country, uplift local businesses, and boost the economy. Tshawuka concluded by emphasizing the foundational nature of the summit’s core focus.
He stated that farming starts with the seed.
“We ask that people contribute generously; as God says, blessed is the hand that gives than the one that receives. This is an opportunity for us as a people, as corporate entities, and as NGOs to come together and demonstrate our unity in supporting the country. We make this appeal with the hope that it will continue to happen. We are happy that preparations are going well and that registration numbers are rising, which shows that the work will be successful,” he said.
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