Enhancing Agricultural Development: Insights from the First Steering Committee Meeting of ProDAI Project in Mozambique
24 May 2024, Manica- The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations in Mozambique (FAO Mozambique) is making significant strides towards sustainable agricultural development through the ProDAI project, «Integrated Agricultural Development Programme of the Beira Corridor.» This initiative, funded by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) with an investment of EUR 5 million, aims to benefit 3 thousand smallholder farmers from the Manica, Barue, and Sussundenga districts of Manica province. Launched in October 2023, ProDAI is scheduled to run until September 2026.
The first Steering Committee meeting convened on March 19th in Chimoio City, garnering notable participation from the AICS Director, Paolo Sertoli, and the Vice Ambassador of Italy in Mozambique, Eugénio Rotaru. Representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MADER) at National Directorate level, as well as various government agricultural institutes, directorates, and services at the provincial and district levels, were present, including FAO staff.
Sertoli commenced the session, outlining the project's objectives and its alignment with AICS's overarching strategies in Mozambique. The Director emphasized the relevant role of Italian assistance in advancing development efforts within the Manica province and the Beira Corridor. Stressing the need for sustained commitment and collaboration, Mr. Sertoli underscored the importance of harmonizing efforts not only among AICS-supported initiatives but also with other regional projects.
Subsequently, the Chief Technical Advisor of FAO, Dario Cipolla, provided a comprehensive overview of the project's components and ongoing activities. With collaborations initiated in 51 out of 115 targeted communities, early progress is evident. Diversified production systems, including valuable chains such as soybean, beans, vegetables, and fruits, are being cultivated through agroforestry approaches.
Following FAO's presentation, discussions ensued, with a focus on production methodologies, particularly agroforestry models. Recommendations were made regarding value chain selection and the imperative of engaging the private sector, particularly the agro-industrial segment, to foster business opportunities and enhance beneficiaries' income.
The Committee deliberated on the necessity of coordinating with other provincial and corridor initiatives to prevent redundancy and ensure maximum impact. Mapping stakeholders and establishing robust communication channels were identified as vital steps towards enhancing collaboration and coordination.
Looking ahead, the Committee resolved to reconvene in six months to review project progress, specifically highlighting outcomes from the second agricultural season of 2023-24 and the implementation of the e-voucher component, aimed at facilitating access to quality inputs through a subsidy scheme.
The maiden Steering Committee meeting of the ProDAI project served as a platform for robust discourse, strategic planning, and collective commitment towards fostering sustainable agricultural development in Mozambique's Beira Corridor.