Malanje – At least 1.7 million tonnes of cassava, 157,674 tonnes of maize, 17,256 tonnes of beans, 5,700 tonnes of soya and 6,341 tonnes of rice were produced in northern Malanje province during the 2022/2023 agricultural season, the acting provincial governor, Angelino Quissonde has said.
The acting governor disclosed the information during the opening of the 2023/2024 agricultural season, underlining that the figures represent an increase in production compared to previous harvests, through the re-launch of rice and grain production and the government’s support with agricultural tools and seeds to assist farming families and business sectors.
Quissonde added that despite the numbers achieved, there is an urgent need to increase production levels, which requires efforts from producers and incentives for entrepreneurs from the State.
The official said at least 200 tonnes of rice seeds and the same amount of compound fertilizer along with 400 tonnes of simple fertilizer are expected to be distributed to farmers this year.
Angelino Quissonde spoke of the deficits in the provision of agricultural services and mechanization, adding that efforts are being made to help producers overcome these problems.
He added that under the anti-poverty programme, some 16,814 families are to be supported with tools and seeds, while 356 ex-militaries will be socially integrated in the 14 municipalities of Malanje.
The opening of the agricultural season was witnessed by the Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, António Assis, who on the occasion highlighted Malanje's agricultural potential and the production levels that the country has been achieving with government’s investments.NC/PBC/AMP
