Strengthening Agricultural Value Chains for Smallholder Farmers

Helping 5,000 smallholder farmers in Cabo Delgado raise incomes and reach stable markets

Photos by: Empowering Farmers Foundation

Why this matters

Agriculture is the backbone of rural life in Cabo Delgado and one of its largest untapped opportunities. Across Mozambique the sector employs around 70% of the population and contributes roughly a quarter of national GDP, with more than 95% of output produced by smallholders on plots smaller than two hectares. Cabo Delgado’s agro-ecological conditions – reliable rainfall and large areas of arable land – give it significant potential. Yet productivity is held back by limited access to inputs, weak extension services, post-harvest losses, and poor market integration, all worsened by conflict and climate shocks.

Sources: World Bank; FAO Country Programming Framework for Mozambique; PEDSA II; INE Household Budget Survey (IOF).

The project

Launched as a three-year program, the initiative combines improved access to inputs, technical assistance, producer organization, and structured market linkage. It promotes cash crops (cashew, sesame, and honey) and nutritious, climate-resilient food crops (sorghum and horticulture), with a strong focus on the economic inclusion of women. By connecting farmers to predictable buyers and guaranteed sales channels, it reduces market uncertainty and allows families to plan, invest, and grow.

Targets
  • 5,000 smallholder farmers targeted for direct support; approximately 23,500 household members benefiting indirectly.
  • 150,000 high-yielding cashew seedlings produced for distribution.
  • 200 lead farmers trained.
  • 1,000 women supported through economic inclusion measures.
  • More than 85 local employees on the project team.