Maize and Bean Production

Maize is critical to food security in Eswatini and the most widely used and produced staple food in the country, thus making it central to household and national income. Notwithstanding that maize is the main diet of the average Swati, the maize value chain has not been developed to the extent that the country is self-reliant in maize grain, and the yield levels are lower than what the available technology can deliver. Eswatini’s annual maize requirement is estimated at approximately 140,000 metric tonnes, while local production averages about 75,000 metric tonnes per year. This results in a national production gap of roughly 65,000 metric tonnes, which is met through imports valued at approximately E250 million annually.

Beans are one of the most important legume crops in Eswatini that many rural households grow, contributing both to household food as a relish and to family income through sales. Though commonly depended on by many rural households, production of dry beans in Eswatini has predominantly remained low and the consumption gap is always bridged through imports.  Imports of beans account for over 85 % of the total volumes of dry beans consumed in the country as of March 2025.   Annual consumption of beans averages 7000 metric tonnes.

NMC supports maize and bean producers through production planning, farmer profiling, training, and technical guidance aimed at improving yields, quality, and consistency of supply.

NMC’s total national storage (silo) capacity is 23,500 metric tonnes, distributed across its regional depots. This capacity supports grain handling, market stabilisation, and strategic reserves.

Compliance and Grading

All maize and beans delivered to NMC must meet prescribed compliance and grading standards. Grain is assessed at delivery based on moisture content, cleanliness, and quality parameters, with prices. Farmer Development Officers support farmers to understand these requirements and improve post-harvest handling.