Agriculture in Mozambique

The most fertile areas are in the northern and central provinces, which have high agro-ecological potential and generally produce agricultural surpluses.

There is also a minor growing season, based on residual soil moisture, from March to July, accounting for approximately 10 percent of total output.

The majority practice extensive shifting cultivation, only about one-third sell any crop output, and almost two-thirds live in households that lack food security.

Maize and cassava are the major staples; other food crops include sorghum, millet, rice, beans, groundnut, sweet potatoes and a wide variety of vegetables.

This crop is an important component of the smallholder’s risk reduction strategy because it is drought tolerant and resistant to disease.

Tree crops, especially coconut and cashew, grown by small farmers, are an important source of foreign exchange earnings, and contribute to household food security.

Average crop yields are about half of the regional standard estimates indicating huge scope for improvement.

Cattle, goats, sheep and pigs are reared in extensive grass-based (ruminants) or back-yard scavenger systems.

South African trawlers are allowed to fish in Mozambican waters in return for providing a portion of their catch to Mozambique.