Recently, AFAP Mozambique announced the initiation of the African Development Bank (AfDB) funded Africa Fertilizer Financing Mechanism (AFFM) program in Maputo, Mozambique. This significant step marks AFAP’s ongoing commitment to increasing participation in the Trade Credit programs and enhancing agricultural productivity in the region.

Over a comprehensive two-day agenda, AFAP and AfDB partners convened to align on the technical aspects of the project in a dedicated planning meeting followed by the official launch of the program on 14 June 2024 in Maputo. This project is part of the Sustainable Agriculture Management Project which has a goal of boosting access to fertilizer for 300,000 smallholder farmers in Mozambique.

The official launch ceremony featured several distinguished speakers, including Oligário Banze, Honorable Vice-Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mozambique; Dr. Martin Fregene, Director of Agriculture and Agro-Industry, African Development Bank; Marie Claire Kalihangabo, Coordinator, Africa Fertilizer Financing Mechanism; and Michael Sudarkasa, President and CEO, African Fertilizer Agribusiness Partnership.

The project will be implemented by AFAP and will provide a $2 million partial trade credit guarantee for fertilizer suppliers and distributors, facilitating the delivery of 60,000 tons of fertilizer. Additionally, a grant of $877,980 will support soil health activities and training for smallholder farmers, ensuring sustainable agricultural practices and improved crop yields.