The fight against climate change and its impact on food security in Mozambique received a €2 million boost thanks to a contribution from the Italian government. The funds, channelled through the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS), will directly support 10,000 smallholder farmers, youth, and women in Tete province, bolstering their resilience and nutritional well-being.
This timely intervention comes as Mozambique grapples with the intensifying climate crisis. Extreme weather events like cyclones, floods, and droughts are becoming more frequent and severe, jeopardizing agricultural production and pushing vulnerable communities deeper into food insecurity.
“Building climate-smart agricultural practices and improving post-harvest management are crucial for overcoming these challenges,” emphasizes Antonella D’Aprile, WFP Country Director in Mozambique. “This generous contribution from AICS will not only equip smallholder farmers with the tools they need to adapt to climate variability but also enhance access to nutritious food, particularly vital for children’s development.”
Agriculture underpins the Mozambican economy, accounting for 80% of GDP, with smallholder farmers playing a dominant role. However, climate-induced disasters disproportionately impact these vulnerable communities. Erratic rainfall patterns and rising temperatures are leading to decreased vegetation cover, further exacerbating food insecurity.
“This project aligns perfectly with Italian Cooperation’s ongoing efforts to support Mozambique’s agricultural sector in the face of climate change, particularly during El Niño events,” says Paolo Enrico Sertoli, Director at AICS’s Regional Office in Maputo. “Focusing on the Beira Corridor is critical for Mozambique and its neighbours like Malawi and Zimbabwe. Additionally, it builds upon our initiatives in Tete province, such as the DELPAZ program, which promotes peace and socio-economic development by empowering local farmers.”
Italy’s contribution marks a significant shift in its support for WFP in Mozambique. While previous assistance focused on emergency response in Cabo Delgado and air service operations, this latest €2 million investment represents the first dedicated to development and resilience-building activities. This strategic shift underscores Italy’s commitment to long-term solutions that empower communities and ensure sustainable food security in the face of climate challenges.
By leveraging this critical investment, WFP and AICS aim to equip Tete’s smallholder farmers with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to thrive in a changing climate, safeguarding their livelihoods and ensuring a brighter future for themselves and their families.
