The Technical Secretariat for Food and Nutritional Security (SETSAN) has revealed that over 40% of the population in some provinces of central and northern Mozambique is experiencing food and nutritional insecurity. The data was released last Friday (February 13) in Maputo during the 7th ordinary session of the National Council for Food and Nutritional Security (CONSAN).
According to SETSAN, the provinces of Nampula and Zambézia show the highest levels of food insecurity in the country. In both, over 40% of the population is nutritionally vulnerable, highlighting the scale of the challenge in these areas. These two provinces are also the most populous in Mozambique.
In the provinces of Sofala, Manica, and Cabo Delgado, the situation is also concerning. In each of these regions, around 30% of the population struggles to access quality food. Although these figures are lower than those in Nampula and Zambézia, they remain high and require attention from national authorities.
In contrast, southern provinces show less worrying indicators. According to SETSAN, less than 20% of the population in these areas suffers from food and nutritional insecurity. Despite the lower numbers, the national picture still requires structural measures to reduce regional inequalities and ensure food security for all.
SETSAN Executive Secretary Judite Mussácula stressed the urgency of increasing agricultural production to improve food availability. She highlighted the need to implement policies that encourage local production and promote crop diversification, essential to reducing food insecurity. Additionally, she emphasized the importance of promoting healthy eating habits within families. “It is crucial to reinforce communication about the proper use of available food,” she said, advocating awareness campaigns and nutritional education, especially in rural areas.
The executive secretary added that locally produced foods should be part of daily meals. “What we produce, such as potatoes or beans, needs to be included in our children’s daily meals. Mothers also need proper nutrition during pregnancy,” she stated.
Finally, Judite Mussácula emphasized that local blends made from peanuts and coconut can improve family nutrition. “It is important to ensure a varied and nutritious diet so that children grow healthy and families enjoy a better quality of life,” she concluded.
Source: Agência de Informação de Moçambique (AIM)
