Around 200 million meticais (approximately 3.1 million US dollars) will be invested in the implementation of a project to develop the agricultural and commercial value chain between the Republics of Mozambique and Zimbabwe.
The project will run for four years and will be implemented in Manica Province and other areas in Mozambique, as well as in certain regions of Zimbabwe identified as having agricultural potential.
The announcement was made this Thursday (03), in the city of Chimoio, during a meeting between delegations from Manica Province and Zimbabwe. Economic agents and partners from both nations were also represented.
The project is funded by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) and aims to boost the regional economy through cross-border trade between the two countries.
In Mozambique, the initiative will be implemented by the Ministry of Economy and the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
“This initiative serves as a tool for regional integration, and our expectation is that it will have a positive impact on the lives of the populations of Mozambique and Zimbabwe. We expect concrete results and the attraction of further investment for both countries. It is a means of regional integration, institutional capacity building, and valuing rural communities,” explained Barbagli.
He expressed confidence that the project will be implemented quickly and effectively so that the set objectives can lead to improved living conditions and help boost the agricultural sector in both countries.
Meanwhile, the Governor of Manica Province, Francisca Tomás, expressed confidence that the project will strengthen trade relations and develop the agricultural sector in both nations.
According to the governor, the main focus will be on overcoming trade barriers, adding value to products, and increasing competitiveness.
“We believe there will also be improvements in food security and the promotion of economic growth through the harmonization of value chains and market access. We will also see value addition and greater competitiveness of agricultural products in both local and international markets, thereby driving the growth of small producers and agro-industries,” she stated.
She reiterated that Manica Province is highly fertile and well-suited for agricultural activity.
“We have enviable potential and we believe we will contribute significantly to the success of this project. It should have a direct impact on the lives of the people of Mozambique and Zimbabwe,” she stressed.
She lamented the fact that much of the province’s production is lost due to the absence of a value chain. Therefore, both countries must work towards a circular economy.
“The establishment of small industries equipped with processing machinery, such as for fruits and vegetables, can help prevent the loss of agricultural production,” defended Francisca Tomás.
To achieve this, she emphasized the need for a detailed study of the province’s needs, in order to respond to the demands of farming families.
Francisca Tomás noted that the project will cover the cross-border region between the two countries.
The governor also called on large agricultural companies to promote the cultivation of crops among farming families to increase agricultural income.
Source: AIM
