Financing value chains of perennial fruit crops in Mozambique

Recommendations for future interventions of financial cooperation

The purpose of this study is to identify financing gaps along the value chains (VCs) of perennial fruit crops in Mozambique and to develop recommendations on how to bridge these gaps. The commissioning agency, Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau (KfW), seeks to develop financial products and services for VC actors. Although agriculture employs 80% of the workforce, its contribution to GDP is just 21%, reflecting low productivity among small-scale farms. Manica and Sofala provinces hold competitive advantages for producing perennial fruit crops like mango, lychee, and citrus, offering potential for income and employment. However, high upfront investment needs and delayed returns pose financing challenges, especially for small-scale producers lacking savings, collateral, and access to credit. This study used qualitative and quantitative methods, including interviews and surveys with farmers and financial institutions, to assess financing needs and supply. Results show limited VC competitiveness due to poor inputs and practices, with most fruit sold locally at low prices. Few farms have formal land use rights (DUAT), and elderly farmers face difficulty accessing credit. While microfinance institutions offer more flexible terms than commercial banks, overall access remains limited. Recommendations include establishing a Credit Line for Agricultural VC Development, launching an Agricultural Microfinance Programme, and supporting finance-for-irrigation initiatives. Further suggestions involve promoting agricultural insurance, disseminating financial information, supporting young farmers, expanding mobile finance, and strengthening AVCF mechanisms. Tailored financial solutions and technical assistance are essential to enhance production, improve quality, and promote inclusive growth in Mozambique’s agricultural sector.

Ilal, Abdul, Michaela Armando, Jakob Bihlmayer-Waldmann, Xavier Costa, Anita Demuth, Laura Köster, Alda Massinga, Osvaldo Mateus, Mariana Mora, Regina Pöhlmann, Matthias Schmidt, Luciana Zanotto, Clemente Zivale