Maputo, Mozambique – In a bid to enhance food security and empower local communities, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) and the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) have pledged to collaborate on strengthening agrifood systems in Mozambique and Zimbabwe.
This partnership, announced last week, signifies a renewed commitment to transforming the agricultural landscape in both nations. “The programme will reduce poverty and improve food and nutrition security through the development of diversified, innovative, efficient, inclusive and sustainable food systems,” said FAO representative José Luis Fernandez, highlighting the project’s core objectives.
The initiative echoes the priorities outlined in the UN Framework for Cooperation, with a particular focus on “Economic Diversification and Sustainable Livelihoods.” This translates to supporting local farmers through improved agricultural practices, increased production, and a stronger focus on climate resilience.
One key area of intervention will be the Beira Corridor in Mozambique. A three-year program, valued at €5 million, will bolster production and supply chains to support the development of an Agri-food Center in Manica province. This is expected to create a ripple effect, stimulating the entire agro-industrial sector within the corridor.
“This is a crucial step towards achieving economic empowerment through improved agricultural practices,” said an enthusiastic Maria Catundura, a small-scale farmer from Manica. “With better techniques and resources, we can not only feed our families but also contribute to the growth of our communities.”
The project is not without precedent. In 2022, FAO launched a similar five-year program specifically targeting Mozambique. This initiative, the Country Programming Framework (CPF), aims to create an “innovative, diverse, efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable” food system by 2026.
While details surrounding the Zimbabwean aspect of the program remain undisclosed, experts anticipate a focus on areas like climate-smart agriculture and capacity building for rural communities.
This renewed commitment by FAO and Italy is a welcome sign for the nations of Mozambique and Zimbabwe. By working together to strengthen agrifood systems, the initiative has the potential to improve food security, create jobs, and empower local communities for a more sustainable future.
