Potential Conflict of Interest in the eSwatini Maize Market: NamBoard CEO

The CEO of NamBoard, eSwatini’s agricultural board, Siphephiso Dlamini, is under scrutiny after an insider claimed he has vested commercial interest in a mill producing maize meal, the mainstay of the region’s diet. The sourced insider from NamBoard alleged this commercial interest can create a conflict of interests, primarily relating to an embargo placed on imported maize, which was imposed last year.

This embargo is said to have resulted in local maize producers being insulated from the competition of the South African market, consequently driving the local price of maize meal higher for eSwatini's consumers.

Despite these claims, Dlamini denies any conflict of interest, arguing his involvement in the seemingly conflicting business interests was fully declared and “ring-fenced” to avoid such issues. According to Dlamini, the decisions to ban or unban maize meal imports were not his, but that of NamBoard as a whole. He also stated that the business is not pursuing any distribution to wholesalers or retailers at present.

The alleged mill is reportedly situated near the Ezulwini Valley, in Lobamba. Maize meal produced here is believed to be distributed as workers’ rations through Montigny Investments' contractors, a timber company based nearby.

The increased price of maize meal in eSwatini has driven furious consumer complaints, particularly considering cheaper alternatives are available over the South African border. Swazis, especially those living below the poverty line, have come to rely heavily on this affordable option from South Africa.

Amidst these allegations, no product from Dlamini's company was found on the aisles of various OK Foods supermarkets across eSwatini in early December.

Dlamini has publically warned against excessive purchases of maize meal from South Africa, remarking that it is not a business opportunity and the current status of their import permits depends on proper use.