The African Development Bank (AfDB) is making a strategic investment in Mozambique’s poultry sector, aiming to unlock significant growth potential. Their 33 million dollar contribution to the Inclusive Agri-food Value Chain Development Programme (PROCAVA) represents a targeted effort to bolster chicken farming, capitalizing on Mozambique’s existing strength as the leading red meat producer in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, boasting an annual production of 29,000 tonnes.
This announcement, delivered by AfDB representative Flávio Soares da Gama at a National Livestock Forum, signifies more than just financial aid. It marks a collaborative venture between the AfDB and the International Fund for Financing Agricultural Projects. The project’s implementation will be overseen by the Mozambican government’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.
Flávio Soares da Gama emphasized the AfDB’s commitment to extending their support beyond financial resources. As a long-standing partner on various projects in Mozambique, the AfDB intends to leverage its expertise across the entire livestock sector value chain. “Under the pillar of financing African projects,” da Gama explained, “the AfDB drives the development of the private sector, and we intend to do the same by embracing this project.”
Mozambique’s Minister of Agriculture, Celso Correia, expressed his government’s enthusiastic reception of the AfDB’s initiative. He outlined plans to strategically allocate the funds to support a blend of public and private sector projects within the poultry industry. This strategic approach is particularly significant considering the sector’s impressive growth trajectory, having witnessed a remarkable 41% increase in production over the past five years. PROCAVA has the potential to serve as a major catalyst, propelling Mozambique’s poultry industry to even greater heights.
The impact of this initiative is expected to resonate beyond increased chicken production. By strengthening the poultry sector value chain, PROCAVA can contribute to job creation, particularly in rural areas. Smallholder farmers stand to benefit significantly from improved access to resources, training, and market opportunities. This, in turn, can lead to increased household incomes and contribute to poverty reduction efforts.
Furthermore, a more robust poultry industry can enhance Mozambique’s food security. Increased domestic production of chicken can help meet the growing demand for protein, particularly as the country’s population continues to rise. This can potentially reduce reliance on imported chicken, leading to greater stability in food prices and availability.
The success of PROCAVA hinges on effective implementation. The Mozambican government, in collaboration with the AfDB and other stakeholders, will need to ensure efficient allocation of funds, prioritize capacity building for farmers, and establish transparent market mechanisms. Addressing potential challenges, such as ensuring access to quality feed and veterinary services, will also be crucial.
Looking ahead, PROCAVA serves as a promising model for future agricultural development initiatives in Mozambique. By focusing on a specific sector within the larger agricultural value chain, this project has the potential to deliver tangible results that improve livelihoods, enhance food security, and contribute to Mozambique’s overall economic growth. The collaborative approach adopted by the AfDB, the Mozambican government, and other stakeholders fosters optimism for the project’s success, paving the way for a more vibrant and sustainable poultry industry in Mozambique.
