Nus Ibrahim’s journey is one of displacement, hardship, and ultimately, remarkable resilience. Fleeing conflict in Cabo Delgado, she arrived at a resettlement camp in Montepuez City with her family, facing an uncertain future. But within this adversity, a story of agricultural rebirth unfolds, fueled by determination and a timely boost from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
Nus’ family, among the 680,000 displaced from Cabo Delgado, faced the stark reality of lost livelihoods and dependence on basic services. The resumption of agricultural production, vital for both sustenance and income, was particularly challenging.
Enter FAO’s intervention. Recognizing the crucial role of agriculture in recovery, FAO provided Nus with vital agricultural inputs: four chickens. This seemingly modest gesture catalyzed an impressive turnaround.
Nus meticulously nurtured the coop, multiplying her poultry stock to 87 at one point. Beyond mere subsistence, she saw an opportunity. Selling 30 chickens generated income, empowering her to hire labour and purchase seeds.
Thus blossomed a virtuous cycle. With the acquired seeds, Nus cultivated a diverse harvest of rice, groundnuts, and maize. This not only ensured food security for her family but also built stock for the coming months.
Nus’ story isn’t isolated. FAO’s assistance, coupled with her tireless efforts, reflects the broader potential for agricultural revitalization in war-torn Mozambique. However, the scale of the challenge remains immense.
Over 1.5 million people in northern Mozambique still require humanitarian assistance, and funding shortfalls pose a significant obstacle. FAO’s 2024 Humanitarian Response Plan aims to reach over 525,000 people, requiring USD 20.1 million.
Nus’ journey showcases the transformative power of agricultural support in war-torn communities. Investing in small-scale farmers like her not only fosters individual resilience but also lays the foundation for broader economic recovery and food security. Increased and sustained support is crucial to ensure that more such stories of hope take root in the fertile soil of Mozambique.
