Boane District Resumes Agricultural Production in Massaca

The Boane district in Mozambique's Maputo province has resumed agricultural production in Massaca with the rehabilitation of the first phase of the Massaca irrigation system, which had been inactive since 2015. The project includes the construction of two concrete fish ponds and other support infrastructure, with an investment of over five million meticais. This initiative aims to support over 80 producers in the region.

According to Manuel Tule, the governor of Maputo province, only 2,064 hectares of the 4,000-hectare potential area of the 51 irrigation systems in the province are currently in full operation. He cited factors such as degraded canals, pump failures, limited access to energy and fuel, soil salinization, and flood effects as reasons for the underutilization of these infrastructure. Tule emphasized the need to recover irrigation systems to reduce dependence on rainfall.

Geraldina Uchavo, the president of the Boane Municipality, highlighted the importance of increasing horticultural production to supply the markets of the Greater Maputo region. She encouraged local farmers to take advantage of the rehabilitated infrastructure to boost their agricultural activities. The project is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy and food security.

Tomás Chaúque, the vice-president of the Massaca Irrigation Association, urged farmers to make the most of the available resources and infrastructure. He emphasized the need for proper maintenance and management of the irrigation systems to ensure their sustainability. Esther Alonso, coordinator of the Andalusian International Cooperation Agency for Development, noted that the project will directly benefit over 80 producers, including 35 women.

The rehabilitation of the Massaca irrigation system is part of a broader effort to revitalize agricultural production in the region. The project is expected to improve food security, increase incomes for local farmers, and contribute to the overall economic development of the area. The initiative is a collaboration between local authorities, farmers, and development partners.

Alonso highlighted the importance of technical assistance and maintenance of the infrastructure to ensure the long-term sustainability of the project. She emphasized that the project's success will depend on the active participation and commitment of local farmers and stakeholders. The project's impact will be closely monitored to assess its effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.

The resumption of agricultural production in Massaca is a positive development for the Boane district and the broader Maputo province. The project has the potential to improve livelihoods, increase agricultural productivity, and contribute to the region's economic growth. Key stakeholders will continue to work together to ensure the project's success and sustainability.

Key points

• Over 80 producers, including 35 women, will directly benefit from the rehabilitated irrigation system in Massaca.
• The project includes an investment of over five million meticais in infrastructure, including two concrete fish ponds.
• The initiative aims to reduce dependence on rainfall and increase agricultural productivity in the region.