African Marketing Journal | 06 September 2007
Sustainable Agriculture Practices Adoption Among Subsistence Farmers in Southern Mozambique: An Evaluation of Government Policy Interventions
C, h, i, k, o, d, o, u, M, a, f, u, t, i, a, ,, M, a, n, d, a, l, a, S, i, p, h, a, t, i
Abstract
Subsistence farmers in southern Mozambique face challenges in adopting sustainable agriculture practices due to limited access to resources and knowledge. A mixed-methods study combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys was conducted in four districts across southern Mozambique. Data collection included farmer focus groups, household questionnaires, and satellite imagery analysis to assess practice adoption rates and effectiveness of interventions. Sustainable agriculture practices were adopted by 45% of surveyed farmers, primarily involving simple soil conservation techniques such as terracing and mulching in response to government incentives and training programmes. Crop diversification was less common but showed potential for increasing resilience against climate change impacts. Government policy interventions have had mixed success in promoting sustainable agriculture practices among subsistence farmers in southern Mozambique, particularly with regard to soil conservation techniques. Further efforts should focus on enhancing knowledge dissemination and providing more comprehensive support. Policy makers should prioritise the expansion of training programmes that emphasise both soil conservation and crop diversification strategies, along with targeted financial assistance for smallholder farmers. Sustainable Agriculture, Subsistence Farmers, Mozambique, Government Policy Interventions