By DIONÍSIO NOVELE*
In Boane, Maputo Province of Mozambique, Arlindo Elias Massingue’s fields tell a story of persistence, learning, and change. At 47 years old and a father of seven, Arlindo has spent years working to provide for his family under difficult conditions. For a long time, that effort was not enough. Like many small-scale farmers, he faced constant setbacks. Poor access to quality inputs such as certified seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides limited what he could produce. At the same time, limited technical knowledge and weak extension support made it harder to improve. Yields remained low, and the impact was felt at home. There were seasons when putting food on the table was uncertain. Paying school fees for his children was a struggle. Farming, instead of offering stability, often brought stress.
Things began to change when Arlindo became involved in the Promoting Regenerative Agriculture for Sustainable Livelihoods (PRASL) initiative, which is a partnership between Solidaridad(Southern Africa), HEINEKEN Africa Foundation, Kvuno, and Hiveonline. As a member of a cooperative, he started participating in training sessions focused on climate-smart agriculture and modern potato production. These sessions introduced him to practical techniques that he could apply directly in his fields. He learned about soil management, crop rotation, and integrated pest and disease control. He also gained access to certified seeds, quality fertilizers, and effective pesticides. With support from service providers such as SDAE and Bayer, he strengthened both his knowledge and his confidence.
Arlindo stood out for his commitment. He attended trainings regularly and applied what he learned with discipline. Step by step, his approach to farming began to shift. The results followed. By adhering to recommended practices and managing his crops more effectively, Arlindo achieved a yield of 30 tons per hectare, far higher than what he had seen in previous years. This improvement marked a turning point, not just for his farm, but for his entire household. With increased income, he was able to meet his family’s needs more consistently. School fees were paid on time. Meals became more reliable and nutritious. For the first time in years, there was a sense of stability.
The benefits extended beyond the household. During the potato season, Arlindo employed 25 seasonal workers from his community, most of them women and young people. His farm became a source of opportunity for others, contributing to local livelihoods and strengthening the rural economy.
He also invested in his future. Using income from his harvest, he purchased his own irrigation pump, allowing him to better manage water and reduce dependence on rainfall. He introduced an additional crop, beginning to diversify his production and reduce risk.
Today, Arlindo is seen as a model farmer within his cooperative. His fields reflect the value of applying good agricultural practices with care and consistency. Other farmers look to him for guidance, and he willingly shares his experience.
“In the past, I struggled alone to support my family. Since I began cultivating Irish potatoes through Solidaridad’s initiative, my life has changed: I now have a stable income, purchased my own irrigation pump, and assist other cooperative members. It has been the best decision I have made as a farmer,” said Arlindo Elias Massingue, Smallholder Farmer.
*Dionísio Novele is the project Manager at Solidaridad (Southern Africa).
