The lush cashew orchards of Sofala province have yielded a bumper harvest this season, with over 8,000 tonnes of nuts sold, a remarkable 6,000-tonne surge compared to the previous year. This surge in production has sparked a wave of optimism, highlighting the significant socio-economic impact of cashew cultivation on local communities.
Lourenço Bulha, head of the Sofala Executive Council, hailed the success, acknowledging the vital role cashew farming plays in providing income, employment, and food security for rural families. However, the focus is now shifting towards maximizing the potential of this burgeoning industry.
A recent consultation in Beira, aimed at refining the regulation of the Cashew Law, underscored the growing ambition for industrialisation. The discussion focused on strategies to enhance the competitiveness of the cashew value chain, from increased production and improved quality to the establishment of processing facilities.
“This consultation will allow us to discuss ideas for the industrialisation of cashew and the competitiveness of the cashew value chain,” Bulha stated. “Cashew cultivation plays an important role in the country’s economy, for rural families who derive income, employment and food security from it.”
The move towards industrialisation reflects a desire to move beyond raw nut exports and capture more value within Mozambique. By establishing processing plants, the province aims to create jobs, stimulate local economies, and establish a foothold in the lucrative global cashew market.
The surge in cashew production in Sofala is a testament to the hard work of local farmers. However, the true potential of this industry lies in its ability to transform the regional economy through strategic investment in processing and value-added products. The discussions in Beira signal a commitment to realizing this vision, ensuring that the sweet success of the cashew harvest benefits not just producers, but the entire region.
