Strengthening Agricultural Development and Agro-Processing in Mozambique
- Fundação RESET
- Mar 14
- 2 min read
Agriculture is a key driver of economic growth in Mozambique, contributing significantly to employment and food security. However, challenges such as climate change, limited infrastructure, and market access hinder its full potential. The IFPRI report on African commitments for agricultural development and the SAIIA study on agro-processing in the SADC region provide valuable insights into Mozambique’s agricultural landscape. These documents highlight the importance of policy coherence, regional trade, and value chain enhancement to achieve sustainable agricultural growth.
Key Findings
The first key finding underscores Mozambique’s commitment to agricultural development through international and regional frameworks like CAADP/Malabo, the African Union’s Agenda 2063, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Despite these commitments, Mozambique’s agricultural growth remains below the 6% annual target set by CAADP. Limited investment, weak infrastructure, and climate variability continue to constrain productivity. However, strategic public investment in agricultural value chains, particularly in food processing and commercialization, could enhance growth.
The second key finding reveals the importance of developing regional agro-processing value chains. Mozambique and other SADC countries have significant agricultural resources, but most of their produce is exported in raw form. The SAIIA study highlights that by increasing investments in agro-processing, Mozambique can generate more value-added products, enhance food security, and reduce reliance on imports. Enhancing trade within the SADC region could lead to greater industrialization, job creation, and economic stability.
The third key finding points to policy and institutional gaps that need to be addressed. Mozambique’s agricultural policies emphasize food security and rural development, but implementation challenges persist. The IFPRI study suggests that investment in irrigation, transport, storage, and market access is crucial to improving productivity and competitiveness. Moreover, regional cooperation in standardizing quality control and certification processes could help Mozambique integrate better into international markets.
The fourth key finding highlights the impact of climate change and the need for resilience-building strategies. Mozambique experiences extreme weather events such as cyclones and droughts, which threaten agricultural productivity. By adopting climate-smart agricultural practices, improving water management, and leveraging regional trade partnerships, Mozambique can mitigate these risks and enhance food security.
Mozambique’s agricultural sector has significant potential to drive economic development and improve food security. However, to fully realize this potential, the country must address key challenges such as limited infrastructure, climate change vulnerability, and weak policy implementation. Strengthening agro-processing industries, increasing investment in rural development, and fostering regional trade partnerships will be crucial for sustainable agricultural growth. By aligning with international development agendas, Mozambique can enhance its agricultural resilience and create more opportunities for smallholder farmers and agribusinesses.
The Bibliography source:
RESET Foundation is committed with the The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Food Security in Mozambique reports are linked to several SDGs:
The SDG'sG's, also known as the Global Goals, were adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.
