Pg. 41-44 Litchi Growing in Mozambique

A survey was made to determine the feasibility of commercial litchi (Litchi chinensis) production in the provinces of Manica and Sofala in Mozambique. A description is given of climatic suitability, irrigation potential, current production and market supply, processing, post harvest handling and export logistics. The most favourable area identified for litchi cultivation is the western part of the Manica province in the vicinity of Chimoio and the Chicamba Real dam.

Summary:

• A survey was conducted to assess the feasibility of commercial litchi (Litchi chinensis) production in the provinces of Manica and Sofala, Mozambique.
• The most suitable area identified for litchi cultivation is the western part of Manica province, near Chimoio and the Chicamba Real dam.
• The climate and soil in this area are favorable for litchi production, with adequate rainfall and soil suitable for optimal growth.
• Irrigation potential is significant due to the presence of the large Chicamba Real dam and numerous smaller water sources.
• Manica province has the advantage of producing early season litchi fruit (late October to early November), ahead of Madagascar and South African production.
• Existing litchi orchards, mostly neglected and aged 10 to 80 years, showed vigorous tree growth and satisfactory yields even without irrigation or fertilization.
• Current litchi production is approximately 30-40 hectares in Manica province, with low production and uncoordinated marketing due to past civil conflict.
• Some small-scale exports were done by air via South Africa, and there is potential for export via air freight or sea freight from the port of Beira.
• Processing facilities for non-exportable fruit exist in Chimoio and could be adapted for litchi processing.
• Logistics are favorable with good road and rail links to Zimbabwe and Mozambique’s ports, although Sofala province has more difficult transport access.
• The litchi industry in Mozambique can provide a vital income source for the country without threatening South African markets.
• Opportunities exist for entrepreneurial investment from South Africa into Mozambican litchi production.
• Other crops such as cotton, bananas, tobacco, sugar, and papayas also show potential for development in this region.