Mozambique's citrus industry has taken a significant step towards growth and sustainability by joining the Citrus Growers Association of Southern Africa (CGA). The CGA and the Mozambique Citrus Association (MCA) signed a memorandum of understanding this week. In joining the CGA, Mozambican farmers will now have access to a wealth of expertise and support.
Tertius Strauss, Mozambican citrus grower and General Manager of Verdant Produce Mozambique, is excited about the development: "This is the start of what will turn out to be an incredible journey. A journey that will continue for generations, as we are establishing an enduring citrus industry in Mozambique. At present it is very small, about 350 hectares, but it has so much potential. Joining the CGA is one of the ways we are getting citrus in Mozambique up and running and onto the global stage."
The CGA and its group of companies will empower the MCA in a number of ways. These include receiving technical assistance from Citrus Research International (CRI), advanced training by the Citrus Academy, and increased access to international markets through established CGA channels.
"Even though right now there are only two large citrus farms - one near Maputo and one near Massingir - it is not about the number of growers, but about the future possibilities. For instance, the orchards at Massingir are only three years old. It employs 150 people at the moment, but when the project is completed it will provide over 800 jobs," Strauss explains on behalf of the MCA.
The MCA is a broad-based grouping of stakeholders that are engaged in the citrus industry. They are motivated to establish a flourishing Mozambican citrus sector by leveraging their unique advantages, which include the nearby Port of Maputo. Lemons, Valencia oranges and Grapefruit are currently grown in the South of the country.
Justin Chadwick, the CEO of the CGA, welcomed the MCA, saying: "The CGA already represents over 1 560 growers from South Africa, Eswatini, Zimbabwe, Botswana and Namibia. It is a great pleasure to welcome our Mozambique neighbours as well. We are now a truly united Southern African industry association. The world appreciates the quality of citrus from our region. This represents immense opportunities for everyone in Southern Africa. By working together, growers across borders can achieve greater efficiency, competitiveness, and profitability."
For more information:
Justin Chadwick
Citrus Growers Association
[email protected]