Seeds of Success: How PROMOVE Comercio Is Cultivating Mozambique's Export Powerhouses

In Mozambique's bustling northern city of Nampula, Matharia Empreendimentos has become a remarkable example of the impact of PROMOVE Comercio – Building Competitiveness for Exports, a project implemented by UNIDO and funded by the European Union (EU).

Initially a small-scale organic farm in Ribaue, Matharia expanded with a processing unit in Nampula city, becoming a symbol of innovation and resilience in Mozambique's agricultural sector. With PROMOVE's assistance, the company enhanced its business models and participated in international trade fairs and investment forums, paving its way into global markets.

Specializing in organic products like moringa and now venturing into cashew nuts and beetroot powder, Matharia successfully entered lucrative international markets including the Netherlands, Japan, and with support from the project is exploring distribution channels and supplier deals in Spain.

The recent joint high-level visit of the EU delegation, the Government of Mozambique, and UNIDO provided Matharia a platform to showcase these achievements. Sampling Matharia's products, including moringa teas and jams, the EU Ambassador Antonino Maggiore hailed it as a success case, underscoring PROMOVE's impact. Despite challenges like energy and water access and the high finance costs, Matharia remains committed to excellence.

The delegation also visited IPEME, a Business Development Service (BDS) provider, emphasizing the role of BDS providers in fostering SMEs development. PROMOVE support to IPEME encompasses ongoing capacity building, coaching, and mentoring across Mozambique, emphasizing skills enhancement in export preparation, business formalization, and financial literacy. 

The collaboration between PROMOVE, Matharia, IPEME, and others promises continued momentum towards sustainable development in Mozambique. Matharia's success stands as a beacon of resilience and collaboration, illustrating the transformative potential of targeted interventions in driving economic prosperity.

To sustain and expand upon the gains made, PROMOVE will roll out a nationwide financial literacy program for SMEs, introduce tailored financing options and strengthen IPEME's consultancy, marketing, technology transfer, and networking capacities.

Through initiatives like PROMOVE Comercio, UNIDO continues its mission of inclusive and sustainable industrial development, lighting the path to a brighter future for Mozambique.

For further information contact Mr. Alejandro Rivera Rojas (a.rivera-rojas [at] unido.org)