Training Young Farmers in Eswatini in Climate Smart Technologies
A project by the Women Farmer Foundation in Eswatini, supported by Unicorn Grocery through True Origin Partnerships
True Origin Partnerahips are now about to start year 3 of a 3 year grant from Unicorn Grocery, supporting the Woman Farmer Foundation in Eswatini with funding which provides bursaries to support students through their Innovative Climate Smart Youth Tunnel Project.
This offers training for young farmers in climate smart technologies but also offers training in business management and finance.
22 young people have been supported through the programme in the first two years. of the grant and a further 10 students will be supported in the third and final year.
AIM Of THE PROJECT: To create practical youth training- agricultural skills centre through technological tunnel production as a sustainable income generating and job creation platform. As well as exposing all year round production of high value crops, whilst combating issues of climate change.
SELECTION CRITERIA: The selection process was transparent and deserving applicants were selected. Training was open to all, including those that do not have an agricultural background as means of empowering them in the agricultural sector. All selected participants should have had tertiary education.
TARGET: Eswatini youth; 65% Female 35% Male, who form 60% of the country’s population and facing the highest unemployment rate.
OVERALL PPROJECT OBJECTIVES
- To provide sustainable skills and income generating opportunities for unemployed youth in Eswatini.
- To improve local vegetable production though the promotion of youth agri-preneurs.
3. After undergoing the training, they (beneficiaries) will have the opportunity to establish their own tunnels with the acquisition of funds from financial Institutions
The Woman Farmer Foundation had this to say: "[We]would like to extend our deepest appreciation for your unwavering support {Unicorn Grocery/ True Origin Partnerships} and sponsorship in providing 12 of our unemployed graduates with the opportunity to participate in the Woman Farmer Foundation training.
"This collaboration has been instrumental in equipping these young women with the practical technical knowledge and confidence required to excel in the agricultural sector and their businesses.
"As these students transition into their roles as graduates, we are committed to furthering their professional development beyond the field. To ensure a holistic growth experience, they are now being exposed to office activities during their non-training days. This integration allows them to develop essential soft skills and gain valuable exposure to a professional work environment, bridging the gap between technical expertise and corporate readiness."
"Finally, it is with great pride that we highlight the exceptional performance of Almighty Sukati. Having consistently outshone his peers throughout the duration of the training, Almighty has been officially absorbed by the organization for an internship.
"He will be serving as a Training Facilitator, where his dedication and talent will undoubtedly inspire the next cohort of learners."
Women Farmer Foundation
