The once bountiful pigeon pea harvest in Cuamba district is facing a significant setback this year, with exports to India plummeting by a third due to the relentless grip of the El Niño weather phenomenon.
The district, which last year shipped a hefty 17,000 tons of the legume to the Asian giant, is now projecting exports of just over 10,000 tons. This sharp decline has sent shockwaves through the local economy, where pigeon pea farming is a crucial source of income for many families.
“The insufficient rainfall brought on by El Niño has dealt a severe blow to our pigeon pea production,” said João de Almeida Júnior, director of the District Services of Economic Activities in Cuamba. “While we are still expecting to earn valuable foreign exchange from this year’s crop, it’s clear that we are operating below our potential.”
Despite the challenges, Júnior remains optimistic about the long-term prospects for the district’s agricultural sector. “Exporting pigeon peas to India opens doors to partnerships, creates new opportunities, and strengthens the economic foundation of our communities,” he said.
Cuamba is not relying solely on pigeon peas. The district is also in the process of commercialising 2,000 tons of sesame and 1,800 tons of soybeans. While these crops offer some diversification, they cannot fully compensate for the shortfall in pigeon pea production.
As the district grapples with the impact of El Niño, farmers and agricultural officials alike are looking for ways to mitigate the effects of future climate shocks and ensure the sustainability of the region’s agricultural sector.
