Eswatini is strengthening its agricultural sector against the impacts of climate change through the adoption of modern farming technologies and climate-smart practices. The country is scaling up protected cultivation systems such as greenhouse tunnels and shade net structures to safeguard crop production from increasingly severe weather events including extreme heat, irregular rainfall, and hailstorms.
Over the past decade, the country has faced intensifying climate variability, with the recent 2024–2025 El Niño event causing severe drought and a significant drop in rainfall. Hailstorm incidents also surged, placing additional pressure on farmers already struggling with shorter recovery periods between extreme weather events.
In response, investments have been directed towards infrastructure and farmer training to build resilience. As of mid-2025, 11 greenhouse tunnels and 32 shade net structures have been installed across key agricultural zones. These facilities have enhanced water use efficiency, cutting consumption by up to 40 percent, while also supporting year-round crop production. Capacity-building programs linked to these projects have reached nearly 700 farmers, with women accounting for the majority of participants.
Protected cultivation has also been linked with youth empowerment and agribusiness development. Eight greenhouse tunnels have been allocated to youth-led farming groups, while several shade net structures have been aligned with the One Country One Priority Product (OCOP) initiative to boost export-oriented vegetable production. Training of extension officers and scheduled farmer sessions continue to expand technical knowledge and promote adoption of these innovations at the community level.
The integration of protected agriculture with agro-industrial incubation hubs is further accelerating transformation. New hubs at the University of Eswatini and within the Ministry of Agriculture are supporting specialized ventures in horticulture, apiculture, and coffee value chain revitalization. Alongside this, a UN Joint Programme is providing protected agriculture support to 12 youth groups, with one greenhouse already operational and additional shade net structures under procurement.
This multi-project approach demonstrates how infrastructure, training, and inclusive participation can strengthen food system resilience. By embedding climate-smart agriculture into national policy and practice, Eswatini is setting an example for other countries in Southern Africa that face similar climate pressures. The program highlights the importance of combining technology, policy alignment, and youth involvement to secure sustainable food production and rural livelihoods.
