African Union Seed Summit begins in Eswatini

The African Union Regional Seed Summit has commenced at the Ezulwini Palazzo Convention Centre in Eswatini. Minister of Agriculture Mandla Tshawuka reported that over 1,200 delegates have already registered, with a target of 1,500 participants expected to attend the three-day event to discuss seed systems and agricultural development.

King Mswati III is scheduled to officially open the summit on its second day. The gathering aims to address critical issues affecting agricultural production and seed development within Eswatini and the broader region.

Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs Jane Mkhonta-Simelane anticipates that more than 3,000 people may attend the agriculture conference. This influx of visitors presents a significant opportunity for local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to benefit from conference tourism through sectors such as hospitality, transport, traditional crafts, and local food production.