In a significant stride toward transforming Eswatini’s agriculture, the Eswatini Water and Agricultural Development Enterprise (EWADE) has launched the recruitment process for the eagerly anticipated Smallholder Agricultural Productivity Enhancement and Marketing Project (SAPEMP).  

This transformative project, supported by a robust budget of E851 million (US$45.5 million) from IFAD, the Green Climate Fund (GCF), the Government of Eswatini, and private sector partners, is poised to strengthen climate resilience, expand market access, and elevate Eswatini’s agricultural sector to regional prominence. 

EWADE’s Corporate Communications Manager, Nokwazi Hlophe, confirmed that the organization is actively recruiting for several essential roles to lead SAPEMP’s rollout. She noted that applications are open for key positions, including Project Financial Manager, Project Accountant, Rural Finance Specialist, Procurement Specialist, and Knowledge Management and Communications Officer, among others. “We’re looking for highly qualified, passionate individuals who want to be part of a team dedicated to sustainable agriculture and rural development,” Hlophe stated. 

The recruitment process closes on November 22, 2024, with applications to be submitted to recruitment@eswade.co.sz. According to Hlophe, EWADE aims to assemble a skilled team that will drive SAPEMP’s mission forward by strengthening Eswatini’s agricultural landscape and empowering smallholder farmers through market expansion, resilient practices, and institutional support. She then advised prospective applicants that their applications should be accompanied by a cover letter stating their position that they want to be considered for and describe how your qualifications, experience and competencies are relevant to the position. “They should also attach the updated curriculum vitae of not more than five pages and certified copies of the academic certificates (diploma(s), certificate(s), degree(s).” 

SAPEMP’s pillars for change 

The SAPEMP initiative is structured around three core pillars: climate-resilient production, market access, and institutional support. Hlophe explained that these pillars are designed to address the immediate and long-term needs of Eswatini’s smallholder farmers. “SAPEMP will empower over 17,000 farmers and create 7,500 new jobs, enabling Eswatini to emerge as a leader in climate-smart agriculture,” she said. “The project will be implemented across all four regions—Hhohho, Lubombo, Manzini, and Shiselweni—ensuring a far-reaching impact.” 

Hlophe elaborated that the first pillar focuses on fostering climate-resilient agricultural practices. “SAPEMP is built to help farmers adopt climate-smart techniques that protect their yields and livelihoods against the effects of climate change, such as droughts and floods,” she explained. Additionally, this component places a strong emphasis on empowering women and youth within rural communities. 

The second pillar addresses market access, bridging smallholder farmers with both local and international markets to enhance income potential. Hlophe noted that SAPEMP will support smallholders in overcoming market barriers by strengthening production clusters and improving access to finance. “This pillar aims to create conditions for smallholders to compete successfully and expand their market reach,” she said. 

Finally, SAPEMP’s third pillar emphasizes institutional support. Hlophe stated that this component focuses on strengthening public services and rural institutions to foster a sustainable growth environment. “It’s about building a foundation for long-term agricultural success,” she added.  

Join a legacy of impact 

Hlophe conveyed that joining SAPEMP means becoming part of EWADE’s commitment to transforming lives in Eswatini. “EWADE has a long-standing reputation for excellence and impact, and SAPEMP offers the chance to further extend this legacy on an even broader scale,” she said. The project’s roles are designed to make substantial contributions to Eswatini’s agricultural sector. “Whether you’re ensuring fiscal responsibility as a Project Financial Manager, championing marginalized groups as a Gender, Youth, Social Inclusion, and Nutrition Specialist, or advancing irrigation systems as an Irrigation and Infrastructure Specialist, every position plays a crucial role in shaping Eswatini’s future.” 

Hlophe emphasized that this recruitment drive is about more than filling jobs—it’s about building a team that will contribute to Eswatini’s economic resilience and food security. “We’re looking for individuals who are ready to build a legacy of resilience, empowerment, and sustainable growth for future generations,” she said, encouraging all qualified professionals with a passion for impactful work to apply and join this groundbreaking project. 

The available positions are: 

1. Project Financial Manager 

2. Project Accountant 

3. Rural Finance Specialist 

4. Procurement Specialist 

5. Procurement officer 

6. Knowledge Management & Communications Officer 

7. Gender, Youth, Social Inclusion and Nutrition Specialist 

8. Horticulture, Cropping, Value Chain & Market Specialist 

9. Monitoring & Evaluation Specialist 

10. Irrigation & Infrastructure Specialist 

11. Agriculture Production Specialist 

Environment, Climate and Safeguards Specialist