Mozambique’s agricultural sector, once a colonial breadbasket, has long promised to be an engine of economic growth. Yet, it remains stuck in low gear, despite boasting fertile soil, diverse climate, and a vast untapped potential. So, what’s holding back this green giant?
“It’s a complex story,” says Maria Matusse, CEO of Agro-Sul, a leading Mozambican agribusiness. “We have smallholder farmers struggling with outdated practices and limited access to inputs, while commercial agriculture is still finding its footing after years of neglect.”
The numbers paint a stark picture. Despite contributing over 25% of GDP and employing 70% of the workforce, Mozambique imports a significant portion of its food. Productivity lags behind regional peers, and post-harvest losses are estimated at 30%.
“Infrastructure is a major bottleneck,” laments João Silva, head of the Mozambican Farmer’s Association. “Roads are poor, storage facilities are inadequate, and access to markets is limited. This makes it hard for farmers to get their produce where it needs to be, when it needs to be.”
However, amidst the challenges, glimmers of hope shine through. The government has pledged to prioritize agricultural development, investing in irrigation projects, access to finance, and extension services. Initiatives like the SUSTENTA program aim to boost smallholder productivity and market access.
“There’s a growing appetite for private investment too,” says Matusse. “Investors are seeing the potential in high-value crops like cashew nuts, macadamia nuts, and tropical fruits. This could create jobs, boost exports, and drive overall economic growth.”
But challenges remain. Land tenure issues, climate change vulnerability, and weak regulatory frameworks need to be addressed. “We need a holistic approach,” emphasizes Silva. “It’s not just about giving farmers seeds and fertilizers. We need to build a robust ecosystem that supports them throughout the value chain.”
The future of Mozambique’s agriculture hinges on its ability to navigate these challenges. Can it overcome the inertia of the past and unlock its true potential? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain – with the right investments, policies, and partnerships, Mozambique’s fertile land could finally blossom into a driver of inclusive and sustainable prosperity.
Industry Voices:
- “Mozambique’s agriculture is a sleeping giant, but it’s starting to wake up.” – Maria Matusse, CEO, Agro-Sul
- “We need to invest in infrastructure, empower farmers, and create a conducive environment for agribusiness.” – João Silva, Head, Mozambican Farmer’s Association
- “The potential is huge, but we need to move beyond rhetoric and into action.” – Investor in Mozambican agriculture
