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Strong demand for pigs in Shiselweni a region located in south Eswatini is creating new opportunities for local farmers with producer groups working to increase supply and improve production systems. The growing market demand highlights the potential of pig farming as a source of income while exposing the need for stronger production capacity.
The Shiselweni Livestock Multipurpose Cooperative Society Limited already has access to a buyer requiring around 80 pigs per week, reflecting the scale of market demand. This aligns with broader national trends as Eswatini slaughtered more than 34,000 pigs in 2024, producing nearly 1,973 tonnes of pork worth over E105 million.
Established in 2023, the cooperative now includes around 200 pig farmers and supports members through coordinated supply efforts, knowledge-sharing and market access initiatives.
Agricultural experts also stressed the importance of proper feeding practices, reliable piglet sourcing, and strong biosecurity measures to improve herd health and reduce disease risks. These interventions are considered essential for farmers aiming to meet market standards consistently.
Despite the growing market opportunities that comes with this rising demand, the effect of Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak, is a major challenge the cooperative keep grappling with.
Furthermore, the cooperative hopes to strengthen its role within the pork value chain by establishing its own abattoir, which would allow members to process and sell pork directly.
March 19, 2026/Shiselweni, Eswatini/
https://agribusinessmedia.com/
