Original Story Published by: Staff Writer for Fresh Plaza
Photo Source: ©Fresh Plaza
(Above) At work at Angel Miguel Cumaio's company.
The Macfrut delegation that presented the 2019 edition in Mozambique also had the chance to visit a few companies and markets so as to better understand the level and potential of the segment. For Mozambique, strengthening the fresh produce sector is a priority for economic and social development. Most companies are small, although there are a few larger ones.
According to FAO sources, Mozambique produces 1.1 million tons of produce, made up mostly of bananas and tomatoes. Export is limited and mostly aimed at South Africa from which, in turn, it imports apples, pears, grapes and citrus fruit.
"We've visited some companies around Maputo such as that owned by Angel Miguel Cumaio. It covers 13 hectares and grows 25 types of vegetables including lettuce, cabbage, medicinal herbs, coriander and tomatoes," explains President Renzo Piraccini.
"The company employs 35 people with a monthly salary of around €100. The minimum wage established by the government is €70. Recently, 5 greenhouses have been set up with the contribution of the IDE NGO, so production cycles are shorter, yields are higher and quality is better. The entrepreneur is very pleased with the results and wants to develop this technology further."
Bernardo Antonio (photo above) is a producer with a 2500 m greenhouse of soilless crops. He grows tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers and sells his entire production to Maputo's Spar supermarket.
