Strengthening soil health in Mozambique through the SoilFER project
From 24 to 27 February 2025, FAO technical experts carried out a mission to Maputo, Mozambique, to advance the implementation of SoilFER project, a key initiative for improving soil fertility and agricultural productivity. This project financed by Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, underscores Japan and FAO commitment to supporting sustainable agricultural development in Mozambique. The mission's objectives included assessing Mozambique’s soil data management, laboratories, and fertilizer regulation frameworks while identifying key institutional needs and investment priorities.
The team conducted several high-level and technical meetings, including discussions with representatives and experts from the FAO office in Mozambique, the Mozambique Institute of Agricultural Research (IIAM), and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MADER). These consultations explored ways to strengthen collaborations and alignment of the project to national priorities. A visit to IIAM’s soil laboratory revealed infrastructure challenges, including issues with IT systems and limited technical capacity, which are impeding accurate soil data management and analysis.
In the field, the team visited Moamba District, where they assessed soil variability, observed existing sampling practices, and discussed soil fertility management challenges with local farmers. The exchanges highlighted the need for more accurate soil analysis and improved fertilizer recommendations tailored to the region’s specific needs. The team also engaged with policymakers and stakeholders to address issues related to Mozambique’s fertilizer regulations, advocating for a more structured and sustainable approach to fertilizer quality control.
The mission revealed the need for investments in modernizing laboratory infrastructure, developing a national soil database, and improving fertilizer regulation. The team stressed the importance of fostering stronger institutional partnerships between government agencies, research institutions, and the private sector to drive progress in soil fertility research and decision-making processes.
Looking ahead, the FAO team in collaboration with Government counterpart outlined a roadmap for project implementation. These include strengthening laboratory capacities and developing high-resolution soil maps to guide sustainable agricultural practices. The project will also work on establishing a comprehensive fertilizer quality control system and ensuring that soil health strategies are embedded within Mozambique’s national agricultural policies.
The SoilFER project is set to play a pivotal role in enhancing Mozambique’s agricultural productivity by addressing critical gaps in soil management and helping farmers implement sustainable practices for long-term soil health and sustainable and resilient agrifood systems.
Photogallery: http://www.flickr.com/photos/landandwater/albums/72177720324667690/