Matsapha, 5 June, 2025
Parliament Portfolio Committees responsible for the Ministry of Agriculture from both Houses undertook an informative tour of key textile firms operating under the Eswatini Cotton Board which was facilitated by the Eswatini Cotton Board under the Ministry of Agriculture. The delegation visited three textile firms namely, Spintex Eswatini, TQM Textile, and Far East Textile Industry, to gain firsthand insight into local cotton value addition efforts and assess industry readiness for increased cotton production, particularly in light of the anticipated Mpakeni project. The Senate Portfolio Committee is chaired by Senator Fezeka Dlamini, while the House of Assembly Portfolio Committee is led by Hon. Dr. Bonginkhosi Dlamini. The visit provided Members of Parliament with an opportunity to trace the entire cotton value chain, from post-harvest handling to the production of finished garments and to engage directly with stakeholders in the textile sector. Committee members also held discussions with officials from the Eswatini Cotton Board on strategies designed to promote local cotton farming. Emphasis was placed on the importance of encouraging more Emaswati to venture into cotton cultivation as a viable economic activity, particularly in rural communities.
Chairpersons of the Agriculture Portfolio Committees (Assembly and Senate) geared up for the tour. (L) Sen. Fezeka Dlamini and Hon. Dr. Bonginkhosi Dlamini.
Portfolio Committee Members with Cotton Board of Directors being briefed on how cotton is processed.
Chief Executive Officer of Far East Textiles Tokkie Henwood (in green), welcoming Parliamentarians.