Feed the Future Improved Seeds for Better Agriculture (SEMEAR) Agreement No: AID-BFS-IO-17-00005

FY2020 5th Year of Project Implementation

2nd Quarter Report: January - March 2020

30 April 2020; Revised July 2020

Prepared By: International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) MOZAMBIQUE www.iita.org

This report is made possible by the support from the Feed the Future, the US Government Global Hunger and Food Security Initiative through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents are the responsibility of IITA and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government.

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2nd Quarter Report for FY2020: January 2020 – March 2020

I. Project information

Project Duration: 5 years Starting Date: October 2015

Life of project funding: Total project budget: US$11.5 M

Geographic Focus: (Angoche, Malema, Meconta, Monapo, Ribaué, Rapale, Murrupula, and Mogovolas districts), Zambézia province (Gurué, Alto Molocué and Mocuba districts), (Barué, Macate, Manica, and Sussundenga districts) and (Angónia, Tsangano, and Macanga districts).

Project Objectives:

1. Increase the production and supply of breeder, pre-basic, basic, and certified seeds of common bean, cowpea, groundnut, pigeon pea, sesame, and soybean in the major FtF ZOI and strengthen the national seed systems

2. Scale-up and enhance the adoption of improved varieties and best management practices in the FtF ZOI using participatory approaches

3. Enhance national policy dialogue on seed and fertilizer supply

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II. Contents

I. Project information ...... 2 II. Contents ...... 3 III. Acronyms and Abbreviations...... 4 V. Executive Summary ...... 6 1. Project Background ...... 7 2. Project Performance during the Second Quarter (January – March 2020) ...... 8 2.1.1 Progress on breeders/pre-basic and basic seed production ...... 8 2.1.2. Progress on certified seed production ...... 12 2.1.3. Seed Distribution and Sales ...... 16 2.1.4. Seed Enterprise Development ...... 17 2.2.1. On-farm demonstrations ...... 18 2.2.2. Training and scaling up adoption ...... 21 2.2.3. Field days, exchange visits, and meetings ...... 22 2.2.3.1 Impact of COVID-19 on SEMEAR Activities...... 23 2.2.4. Gender Issues in SEMEAR Implementation...... 24 2.2.5. Environmental Monitoring and Mitigation Plan (EMMP) Compliance ...... 25 3. Communications and farmers’ outreach ...... 26 4. Project Performance Indicators ...... 28 5. Major Implementation Issues ...... 30 6. Collaboration with other donor projects ...... 30 7. Key Activities Planned for Next Quarter ...... 31 8. Evaluation / Assessment Update ...... 32 9. Administrative Update ...... 32 10. Financial Information ...... 32 11. Success Story ...... 33

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III. Acronyms and Abbreviations

MPCM Movimento para a Promoção do Cooperativismo Moderno APROSE Associação pra a Promoção do Sector de Sementes CBSG Community-Based Seed Grower CGIAR Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research COPAZA Cooperativa de Produtores da Alta-Zambézia CIAT Centro Internacional de Agricultura Tropical CBO Community-based Organization CZNdt Centro Zonal Nordeste CZNrt Centro Zonal Noroeste CZC Centro Zonal Centro DINAS Direcção Nacional de Agricultura e Siviculta DPA Direcção Provincial de Agricultura e Segurança Alimentar FAs Farmers’ Associations FAO Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations FtF ZOI Feed-the-Future Zone of Influence FtF – InovA Feed the Future Innovations for Agriculture Activity FtF STP Feed the Future Seed Trade project ICRISAT International Centre for Research in the Semi-Arid Tropics IIAM Instituto de Investigação Agrária de Moçambique IITA International Institute of Tropical Agriculture InovAgro Innovation in Agribusiness (Swiss-funded project) MASA Ministério de Agricultura e Segurança Alimentar NCBA CKUSA National Cooperative Business Association, Cooperative League of the United States of America PAN Posto Agronómico de Nampula SBS Sociedade de Beneficiamento de Sementes QDS Quality Declared Seeds SDAE Serviço Distrital de Actividades Económicas RAMA – BC Resilient Agriculture and Marketing Activity – Beira Corridor TNS TechnoServe Inc. USAID United States Agency for International Development

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IV. Contributors and Acknowledgements

Contributors

Malita CJ, Boahen SK, Wiredu AN, Savala CEN, Chibeba A, Embaló FM, Belarmino D, Gaudêncio S, Maereka E, and Madzonga O, on behalf of project implementing partners.

Acknowledgements

We want to extend our acknowledgement to project technicians who tirelessly continue to devote efforts at creating awareness about the benefits of improved varieties, best management practices and produce EGS that are supplied to seed producers for multiplication into certified seeds. These efforts lead the increase production and supply of good quality seeds that are distributed to farmers and other stakeholders in the Feed the Future ZOI and across the country at large. Gratitude is also paid to those who directly or indirectly contribute to the achievement of this mission, developing resilient farming systems that play a major role in feeding the country and contribute to economic growth.

Thank you very much!

Carlos Malita

Nampula, April 2020

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V. Executive Summary

SEMEAR activities during the second quarter of FY202 focused on providing technical support to partners to consolidate the gains in the last four years and sustain the results and impacts of the project. The main activities conducted during the period include planting of early generation seed (EGS) which started in the first quarter, collaboration with seed producers to establish demonstration plots on varieties and good crop management practices to create demand for seeds, training of seed producers and farmers and other awareness creation activities. The consortium partners planted 11 ha breeder/pre-basic and 69.7 ha basic seed fields across the six crops: common bean, cowpea, groundnut, pigeon pea, sesame and soybean. It is expected that 75.5 tons of EGS would be harvested from the 80.7 ha planted. The estimated quantity of EGS to be harvested will be expected to plant 2,517 ha during the 2020/2021 cropping season.

The project supported partners including seed companies, individual seed producers, farmers’ associations and NGOs to produce certified and QDS through the supply of basic seeds, training and technical advice on harvest and post-harvest management. About 19.6 tons of basic seed were sold to seed producers by the end of the second quarter to produce certified seed. The basic seed sold is expected to plant 780 ha of certified seed fields. SEMEAR partners planted a total of 1,370 ha for certified seed or QDS by the end of the second quarter and it is estimated to produce 1,310 tons of seeds at the end of the season. The restrictions on travel and gatherings, and other measures to contain the infection and spread of COVID-19 delayed data collection so additional data on area planted will be available in the next report. SEMEAR collaborated with seed producers and other partners to jointly establish 496 variety and inputs demonstration plots on 25.8 ha of land to create awareness and demand for improved seeds. Training sessions, field days and field visits were organized to improve the knowledge and skills of seed producers, farmers and other partners. Four hundred and ninety-three people with 51% female participation were trained whereas, 521 people, 53% females attended field days. Some training sessions and field days were cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Through various activities such as seed production and distribution, partnerships, technology promotion and awareness creation, SEMEAR reached 36,117 beneficiaries during the second quarter; 40% of the beneficiaries are females and 45% are youth 29 years and below. Furthermore, the project recorded 30,124

6 individuals who applied improved technology on their farms of which 12,208 individuals used improved varieties and 16,916 applied improved crop production practices. In total, the farmers applied improved technology on 32,025 ha.

1. Project Background

Limited access to good quality seeds of improved varieties and other inputs as well as poor crop production practices are major challenges that limit productivity on many smallholder farms in Mozambique. Important inputs such as fertilizers, inoculants, and crop protection products are not easily available to farmers at affordable prices. The Covid-19 pandemic is a new challenge that would likely have negative impacts on the agri-food system due to travel and gathering restrictions which affect provision of extension services to producers, labor for weeding and harvesting, traders and consumers. SEMEAR is one of the many USAID interventions that are addressing some of the challenges of smallholder farmers by providing increased access to quality seeds of high-yielding varieties, inputs, and other improved production technologies. The project is partnering with seed companies, farmers associations and other community-based organizations, public agencies such the Technology Transfer Centers and the Extension Service as well as other donor-funded projects to increase access to seeds of high-yielding and resilient varieties. SEMEAR and its partners are also improving the dissemination of sustainable crop management practices to increase resilience to climate change and increase productivity. The goal is to enhance the adoption of improved technologies, income, and food security of smallholder farmers in the Feed the Future (FtF) Zone of Influence (ZOI) in Manica, Nampula, Tete and Zambézia provinces.

The project is being implemented by four consortium partners: IITA, IIAM, CIAT and ICRISAT focusing on six crops that are important for the livelihoods of smallholder farmers for food and nutrition security and income. The crops are common bean, cowpea, groundnut, pigeon pea, sesame and soybean. The key role of the consortium partners is to produce and supply breeder, pre-basic and basic seeds for the production of certified and QDS by seed companies, community-based seed producers, and other seed growers. The project encourages farmers to buy certified seeds and inputs through training and awareness creation activities, identifies and trains community seed producers to engage in profitable seed production enterprises, facilitates

7 seed field inspection and certification, and links seed producers to seed buyers. SEMEAR is in the fifth and last year of implementation; hence the activities of the remaining period focus on consolidation of the progress made to ensure sustainability of the project results. This report provides progress on project activities during the second quarter of FY2020 from January to March 2020.

2. Project Performance during the Second Quarter (January – March 2020)

The activities conducted during the second quarter of FY20 focused on planting various classes of early generation seed (EGS) which started from the first quarter and those for cowpea and sesame which began in the second quarter. The project also established additional demonstrations plots in partnership with seed enterprises, community-based seed producers, farmers associations and NGOs. Other activities conducted included monitoring and supervising day-to-day management of demonstrations fields until mid-March when the government imposed restrictions on movements and social distancing measures to contain the spread of COVID-19. The details of the activities conducted during the period are presented by objective in the sections below.

Objective 1: Increase the production and supply of breeder, pre-basic, basic, and certified seeds in the major FtF ZOI and strengthen the national seed systems 2.1.1 Progress on breeders/pre-basic and basic seed production

EGS production for all six crops continued from the first quarter especially for soybean, groundnuts, pigeon pea and common bean; whereas planting of cowpea and sesame started and ended in the second quarter. Other activities conducted after seedling emergence and crop establishment include weeding, scouting for pests and diseases and chemical spraying where necessary.

Common bean Common bean activities on EGS concentrated on managing the bean seed crop which was planted in December 2019. Three hectares of breeder/pre-basic seed and 5 ha of basic seed were planted in Angónia, Tete province (Table 1). Drought spells around the end of February when

8 the crop was at late flowering to mid-pod filling stages will have a negative impact on seed yield. Additional early generation seed production activities were initiated in Barue, Manica province to support a private sector partner – Sementes Nzara Yapera to produce basic seed (3.75 ha of NUA 45 and CAL 143) from pre-basic seed acquired from the project. It is expected that 8 tons of common bean EGS would be produced by SEMEAR that can plant 114 ha certified seed fields.

Table 1: SEMEAR FY2020 early generation seed target area and area planted by the end of the second quarter (January-March 2020) Crop Breeder/pre-basic (ha) Basic (ha) Target Planted Target Planted Soybean 0.5 3 15.0 25 Common bean 17.1 3 115.0 5 Groundnut 5.1 4 46.3 18.5 Pigeon pea 0.05 0 4.3 2.15 Cowpea 0.30 1 10.0 14 Sesame 0.012 0.02 2.0 5 Total 23.1 11.0 192.6 69.7

Cowpea Land preparation for cowpea pre-basic and basic seed production was done in the first quarter but planting started in mid-January in Nampula, Manica and Zambézia provinces. One- hectare cowpea pre-basic seed and 14 ha of basic seed were planted by the end of Fig. 1. Cowpea basic seed field in Namialo ready for first harvest the second quarter (Table 1). The varieties planted include IT-16, IT-18, IT 1069, IT 1263,

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IT97K-390-2, IT99K-573-1-1 and Sudan-1. The main field operations undertaken during this quarter were weeding, thinning, and pest and disease control. When chemicals treatments were necessary, the Environmental Monitoring and Mitigation Plan (EMMP) was strictly adhered to; including regular training, and protection and disposal guidelines. Because of the short maturity duration, some varieties have matured or close to maturity (Figure 1) and harvesting began during the first week of April.

Harvesting of cowpea fields would be completed by mid-May since some of the varieties will be harvested two or three times. We expect about 8.5 tons of seed that would meet the early EGS target which can plant 340 ha during the next cropping season.

Groundnut and pigeon pea During the second quarter, the project focused on weed management and monitoring the development of the crops planted in the first quarter. No further planting of seed was done, therefore, the area planted to breeder and basic of groundnut and pigeon pea remained the same as reported for the first quarter (Table 1). Four hectares of breeder seed and 18.5 ha of basic seed were planted at IIAM Stations at Ntengo Umodzi and Villa Ulongue. The varieties include Nametil, ICGV–SM 99568, JL 24, CG 7 and Mamane. Two hectares of pigeon pea variety ICEAP 00557 basic seed were also planted. Generally, crop development during the quarter was good. It is expected that about 14 tons of groundnut and 1.6 tons of pigeon pea basic seed would be harvested that can cover about 200 ha and 160 ha certified seed fields, respectively.

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Sesame Sesame EGS planting began in mid-January 2020. The varieties planted are Linde, Nicaragua and Rama. The crop reached flowering and capsule formation by the end of the second quarter (Figure 2). Four hectares of sesame basic seeds were planted at Muriaze, Namialo and Fig. 2. Sesame basic seed field at flowering at Muriaze, Nampula Murrupula in Nampula province and 1 ha was planted at Sussundenga in Manica province (Table 1). About 200m2 of sesame pre-basic seed was also planted in Muriaze. Major activities conducted after emergence including weeding and pest control using chemical spray in accordance with the EMMP plan. The fields in Nampula province have been inspected by the seed inspection unit. Harvesting is expected to begin around the end of May, and we expect to have about 3 tons of basic seed that can plant 1,000 ha. Soybean Twenty-three hectares of soybean EGS were planted in Dec 2019 during the first quarter and additional 5 ha were planting in early January 2020. Most of the fields are in Tete and Zambézia provinces with small areas in Manica and Nampula provinces. In total, 3 ha and 25 ha of pre-basic and Fig. 3 Soybean basic seed field at late vegetative stage at Namarripe, Gurué district. Photo taken early March basic soybean seeds, respectively were established (Table 1). Varieties planted include Wamini and 10E (early maturing); Sana (medium maturing); and Zamboane and Wima (medium to late maturing). The main activities on soybean during the second quarter were weeding, roguing of off-types, ridging, scouting for diseases and pests, and chemicals spraying to control soybean rust and bacterial blight diseases.

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The crop is at various growth stages from seed fill to beginning maturity stages (Figure 3). Harvesting of the fields will begin in the third week of April 2020 and it is estimated that 35 tons of seeds would be harvested that can plant 580 ha area for certified seed in the next cropping season.

Overall, all EGS fields were planted by the end of the second quarter. For the FY20 cropping season, 11 ha of breeder/pre-basic seeds fields were established against a target of 23.1 ha (Table 1), whereas a total of 69.7 ha of basic seed fields were planted against a target of 192.6 ha. This implies that, across the six crops, the area planted for breeder and pre-basic seed was 48% of the target due to the low achievement of the common bean target which is 74% of the total target. For the basic seed, the area planted was 36% of the target as a result of the small area planted to common bean, groundnut and pigeon pea. Again common bean target area is about 60% of the total basic seed target. The EGS targets were revised downwards to align with the cut in the project budget due to limited funding situation. However, the revised targets were not accepted so the current production figures are being compared to the original targets so that explains the low achievements. It is expected that the project would harvest 7 tons of breeder/pre-basic seed from the 11 ha and 68.5 tons of basic seed from the 69.7 ha planted. The estimated quantity of EGS to be harvested can plant 2,517 ha in the next cropping season.

2.1.2. Progress on certified seed production

SEMEAR focused on certified seed activities during the second quarter and provided technical support to partners to consolidate and sustain certified seed production. The project worked in partnership with certified seed and QDS producers to establish demonstrations on varieties to create awareness and demand for the seed they are producing. Some of the demonstrations for soybean, groundnut and common beans were established in the first quarter and these crops and the rest of the crops were completed in the second quarter. The partners were trained to establish demonstration plots to be able to set up their own demos in the future. SEMEAR also involved SDAE in establishing the demos to ensure continuity of support to the seed producers after SEMEAR ends. The project facilitated linkages between community seed growers and seed companies to promote out grower schemes to assist community seed producers to market their seeds. Some of the linkages include the following:

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1. Mr. Jacinto Costa (a seed multiplier based in Mogovolas), is expecting to sell 2 tons of sesame certified seed to Phoenix Seeds Lda as result of linkage established between the two. 2. Mr. Musa Ali (a seed producer based in Monapo, Mzeripani), is linked to Phoenix Seeds Lda and he is expecting to sell about 3 tons sesame certified seeds this season. Mr. Mussa was motivated to increased seed multiplication as a result of good business he did with an Agro- dealer based in Alto Molocué 3. Mr. Sinsseque a very well-known farmer and seed producer based in Itoculo Monapo, sell seeds to local farmers and he is also linked to IKURU and Oruwera Seed Companies. In the current season, Mr. Sinsseque expects to produce 3 tons of sesame, 1 ton of cowpea and 1 ton of pigeon pea; 4. Mariano Mariano (a seed producer based in Alto Molocué), is linked to Phoenix Seeds through a contract to multiply soybean, common bean, sesame and pigeon pea certified seeds. Mariano expects to produce 7.8 tons of soybean, 2.7 of tons sesame and 1.27 tons of common bean. With the contract with Phoenix, Mariano engaged 15 other farmers to increase the area under seed multiplication, adding another 4 tons and 3.5 tons of soybean and sesame certified seeds, respectively;

The restrictions on travel and gatherings as well as social distancing measures to contain COVID-19 in mid-March affected some of the planned activities with partners. We suspended some planned supervisory and monitoring visits to partners, and this is caused delays in data collection from some partners.

During the second quarter, fields of some partners across the FTF ZOI were exposed to various degrees of drought spells but in general, seed production is progressing well. Data collected so far indicate that 750 ha of soybean certified seed fields were planted by partners by the end of the second quarter against a target of 580 ha (Table 2). Because of travel restrictions data collect is a little slow; hence we expect more data on area planted by the end of the third quarter. Based on the information collected so far 35% (264 ha) of the soybean area planted belongs to individual farmers, 19 % (142 ha) planted by farmers’ associations and 46% (343 ha) planted by seed companies and agro-dealers. The project is supporting about 65 individual community-based

13 seed producers; 15 farmers’ associations and cooperatives; and about 8 seed companies and agro-dealers to establish soybean certified seed and QDS fields.

The project is facilitating the inspection and certification of seed multiplication fields of partner by the Seed Inspection Unit. This is an effort to create functional linkages between community- based seed producers and the Inspectors to enable them take up the responsibility of arranging field inspection and certification themselves after SEMEAR ends. SEMEAR compiles the list of producers within a locality and supports the inspector’s trip with a maximum of 6,000 MZN for fuel. On a single trip, the fields of up to five producers depending on the number of producers in that locality could be inspected. Forty-seven hectares of soybean fields in Angónia district and 67 ha of soybean fields in Gurué district were inspected by the end of the second quarter. Most of the soybean fields as well as those of other crops will be inspected in the third quarter.

Cowpea and sesame certified seed and QDS production is in progress on several farmers and seed companies’ fields mostly in Nampula province. About 107 ha of cowpea and 287 ha of sesame seed multiplication fields were recorded by the end of the second quarter (Table 2). More data will be collected from partners in the third quarter. For the area planted to cowpea 53% (57 ha) belongs to seed companies and agro-dealers, 34% (36.5 ha) is owned by individual seed producers and 13% (13.5 ha) belongs to farmers associations. Similarly, seed companies and agro-dealers own 53% (153) of the sesame seed multiplication fields, 25% (73.5 ha) of the fields belong to individual farmers and 22% (64 ha) belong to farmers associations. The project provided technical support to partners on planting, weed, pest and disease control, roguing, seed inspection and training. The cowpea varieties planted are mostly IT 16 and IT 18, whereas the sesame varieties planted are mostly Linde, Rama and Nicaragua. The project worked with the SIU to inspect 11.5 ha of cowpea and about 35 ha of sesame and will continue with the inspection in the third quarter.

Partners began planting common bean certified seed under rain fed conditions in the second quarter. Four farmers’ associations, one in Barue and three in Sussundenga have planted 3.8 ha. Seed company partners including Emilia Commercial, Phoenix Seeds and Compahnia de Zembe

14 in Manica province have established 71.45 ha of common bean seed multiplication fields (Table 2). Varieties planted include NUA 45, SUGAR 131 and CAL 143.

The project is supporting several associations of community seed producers to produce quality declared seed of groundnuts in various communities. The associations include Zidana, Ndundu, Chiphole, Ndadzabwino and Chiritse in Angónia district; Katete, Chiolagaga, Kafuwa, Chincuumba and Kachere in ; Groupo da Antenas in ; Napico, Nicume and Nathelaca in Alto-Molocue district. The associations have planted 21.4 ha of CG7, Mamane and JL24, four farmers have planted 4.23 ha of Nametil and JL24 and Emilia Comercial has planted 1 ha of variety Nametil (Table 2). More information on area planted to groundnut will be available in the next quarter. For pigeon pea, SEMEAR sold 280 kg basic seed of variety ICEAP 000557 to AGRI-CON/COPAZA/SBS from which 20 ha of certified seed have been planted. Also Klein Karoo Seed Ltd purchased 1 ton of basic seed and it is estimated that about 100 ha of certified seed have been planted. More information on the area planted to pigeon pea will be reported in the next quarter.

In summary, the data collected so far indicate that a total of 1,370 ha of certified seed fields have been planted by partners with support from the project across the six crops by the end of the second quarter (Table 2). This area is about 50% of the target and this is partly due to delays in information gathering as a result of travel and gathering restrictions which have limited routine visits to partners for information and the slow pace of obtaining data by phone. It is estimated that this planted area will produce 1,310 tons of certified seed at the end of the growing season. Harvesting is on-going, so the final harvest figures are yet to be determined. The project facilitated the inspection of 160 ha by the end of the second quarter.

Table 2. Certified seeds planted by partners collaborating with SEMEAR within the FtF ZOI by the end of the second quarter of FY19 and the estimated yield.

Crop Target (ha) Planted (ha) Estimated yield (tons) Soybean 580 750 900 Cowpea 320 107 86 Sesame 333 291 146

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Common bean 700 75 60 Groundnut 417 27 22 Pigeon pea 412 120 96 Total 2,762 1,370 1,310

2.1.3. Seed Distribution and Sales

In the second quarter of FY2020, SEMEAR sold additional 730 kg of basic seed to AGRICON and Projecto Help Code adding to the first quarter sales to 19.6 tons of early generation seeds made available to partners for planting in the 2019/2020 growing season (Table 3). The quantities of seeds are expected to cover 780 ha. Soybean constitute the greater portion (68%) of the seed sold confirming that the demand for soybean EGS is far higher than that for the other five crops and further explains the demand trend for crops considered as cash crop in this case soybean and food security crops like cowpea and to some extent groundnut. The basic seed sold is lower than that for last year around the same time because of the decision not to sell seeds on credit this season. Because almost half of the seeds sold in previous seasons have not been paid so this measure is to minimize the amount of unpaid purchases. Thus, the project still has large quantities of seeds in storage. The seeds were sold to seed companies, community-based seed growers and other seed producers (Table 3). The revenue from seed sales for this season is 2,079,600 MZN ($32,000) compared to MZN 3,363,305 (US$ 56,055.08) last season around the same time. The total amount from seed sales to date is 8,615,583.10 MZN ($132,547). Some quantities of seeds were used to establish demonstration plots and other awareness creation activities as well as contribution to partnerships activities.

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Table 3: Basic seed supplied to partners for certified seed production during the 2019/2020 growing season. Crop Quantity Expected Partner (tons) coverage (ha) Soybean 13.36 267.2 Phoenix Seeds, Solidaridad, Agri-Con, TechnoServe, Olipa-ODES, Common bean 1.05 17.4 Klein Karoo, Emilia Comercial, AGRICON, Projecto Help Code Groundnut 0.18 3 Malema growers

Pigeon pea 1.63 163 Klein Karoo, Agri-Con, Projevto Help Code

Cowpea 2.73 109.2 Phoenix Seeds, Emilia Comercial, Agri-Con, Monapo growers, Ruby Mining company, Montepuez Sesame 0.660 220 Phoenix Seeds, Olipa-ODES, Klein Karoo, Projecto Help Code, AGRICON Total 19.6 780

2.1.4. Seed Enterprise Development SEMEAR’s approach towards seed enterprise development involves provision of support to small seed enterprises and establishing linkages with agro-dealers, seed companies, farmer’s associations and other donor projects to market and distribute improved seeds in the communities. During the second quarter of FY20 the project continued its work with seed growers in the project locations, strengthened capacities in seed production, marketing, inspection and certification, and distribution of improved seeds. For examples, the project engaged two potential young entrepreneurs (seed growers) in Nampula and Zambézia provinces to support their training to be independent seed inspectors. Unfortunately, the training is on hold due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Market linkages were also facilitated between Patrício Clemente (Olima Farm) and Farmers Forum of Malema to provide training, certified seeds, chemicals and extension and marketing Fig 4 Patrício Clemente engages farmers to market his products and services in Malema services to the farmers (Figure 4). Olima Farm is also district. linked with Hérlder Comercial, a Hub Agro-dealer based in Namiconha, Ribaué district in Nampula province. Hérlder Comercial supplies Olima

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Farm with certified seeds of vegetables, legumes and agro-chemicals for his inputs shop in Malema. The project is working with other seed growers who are confident in their capacity to continue business even if the project ends.

2.2. Component 2: Promote and scale-up the adoption of best crop management practices in the FtF ZOI using participatory approaches

2.2.1. On-farm demonstrations

The project established demonstration plots jointly with seed producers with the participation of SDAE in various districts during the cropping season. This is to enable SDAE to provide the necessary support to the seed producers when SEMEAR ends. Planting of the demos was completed in the first week of February. The project partnered with seed companies and agro- dealers, farmers associations and individual seed growers and NGOs across the FtF ZOI to showcase the varieties as well as improved crop management practices (Fig 5). For example joints soybean and groundnut demos have been established with Olima Farma in Malema, demos of all the crops being promoted have been established with Mariano Mariano, a seed producer in Alto Molocue, Musa Ali seed producer in Monapo, Solidaridad, iDE, farmers’ associations such as Associacao Wiwanana Orera, Chigwilizano, Mwai Wathu, Tigwilane Manja, Tilimbique, Makwangwala Katsanha, Fonte Boa etc.

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Fig. 5 Demonstration plot in Angónia showcasing soybean varieties and importance of rotation with maize

In total, of 107 soybean demonstration plots showcasing varieties such as Wamini, Wima, Sana, Zamboane and other varieties have been established on a total of 11.45 ha; 33% were hosted by females (Table 4). Fifty-three common bean demos showcasing NUA 45, Sugar 131, CAL 143, A222 and a local variety have been established on 2.2 ha with 47% being hosted by females (Table 4). For groundnut, 90 demonstration plots have been established on 1.8 ha across Nampula, Manica, Tete and Zambézia provinces of which 47% are hosted by females. Eighty pigeon pea demos have been established on 1.6 ha for which only 18% are hosted by females indicating females are not very much interested in the crop since it is not a crop commonly consumed at home. For cowpea, 124 demonstration plots were established during the second quarter in Manica, Nampula and Zambézia provinces on 7.8 ha (Table 4). Out of this number, 34% was hosted by female farmers. The focus of the cowpea demonstrations is on improved varieties, timely planting, use of inoculants, insect, pest and disease control. Sesame production technology and varieties were demonstrated on 42 fields with only 19% being hosted by females (Table 4). Overall, 496 demo plots were established across the six crops by the end of the second quarter on 25.8 ha. On average, 33% of the demo plots were hosted by females compared

19 to the 48% registered last year. The focus of the demo plots under the SEMEAR exit strategy was on joint demos with seed producers so to some extent, this limited the number of females who hosted demos.

The category of partners who hosted the demonstration plots varied among the crops and this provides a snapshot of the crops that are of major interest to each category of partners. For example seed enterprises were more interested in a joint soybean demos (31%) than that for the other crops, whereas, community-based seed producers tend to be less interested in cowpea (6%) and sesame (7%) demos, although partners were not randomly selected to allow valid conclusions (Table 5). Ten percent of the demos are hosted by seed enterprises, 29% are hosted by community-based seed producers, 57% are hosted by farmers and 4% are hosted by NGOs (Table 5). The project involved SDAE in establishing the plots and in conducting monitoring visits to provide advisory services. SDAE’s participation range from 39% of the demos for soybean to 83% of the cowpea demos (Table 5). Demonstrations hosted by new partners or in new areas constitute 18%, whilst the rest are continuing partners.

Table 4 Demonstration plots established in the FtF ZOI by the Second Quarter of FY2020 Crop* Male Demos Females Demos Total No. Total Area (ha)

Soybean 72 35 107 11.5

Common bean 28 25 53 2.2

Groundnut 48 42 90 1.8

Pigeon pea 66 14 80 1.6

Cowpea 82 42 124 7.8

Sesame 34 8 42 0.9

Total 330 166 496 25.8

*Cowpea and sesame are late planted crops; hence their demonstration plots were not established by the end of the first quarter.

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Table 5. Demonstration plots established in the FtF ZOI by the Second Quarter of FY2020 segregated by category of partners*

Crop Seedco CBSG Farmers NGOs Total SDAE New Old

Soybean 33 (31) 16 (15) 42 (39) 16(15) 107(100) 42 (39) 27 (25) 80 (75)

C. Bean 6 (12) 15 (28) 32 (60) - 53 (100) 31 (58) 17 (32) 36 (68)

Groundnut - 47 (52) 43 (48) - 90 (100) 47 (52) 15 (17) 75 (83)

Pigeon pea - 56 (70) 24 (30) - 80 (100) 56 (70) 12 (15) 68 (85)

Cowpea 4 (3) 7 (6) 109 (88) 4 (3) 124(100) 103(83) 57 (46) 67 (54)

Sesame 5 (12) 3 (7) 32 (76) 2 (5) 42 (100) 28 (67) 28 (67) 14 (33)

Total 48 (10) 144 (29) 282 (57) 22 (4) 496 (100) 307(48) 156(18) 340 (82)

*Seedco = Seed Company; CBSG - Community-based seed grower; New – new partners; Old – continuing; Numbers in brackets are the percentages of the demos in that category.

2.2.2. Training and scaling up adoption

In the second quarter of FY 2020, training sessions were organized for seed producers and farmers in partnership with farmers associations and SDAE. The topics covered included agronomic practices for seed production, pest and disease control, production cost, harvesting and post-harvest management. The training was conducted in several districts within the FTF ZOI and a total of 493 individuals were trained (Table 6). The participants comprised 51% females which is similar to the proportion of females (52%) who attended training sessions during the same quarter last year. Some planned training sessions were suspended after the second week of March 2020 because of the restrictions on travel and gatherings as a result of COVID-19. The impacts of COVID-19 will be elaborated in the next section.

Student Training: SEMEAR has a six-month internship training program in partnerships with the local universities and polytechnics which starts from January to June. For FY2020, 11 final year students (4 females) are being trained across SEMEAR activity sites in Nampula, Tete and Zambézia provinces. They are engaged on activities such as establishing demonstration plots, farmers training, field days, data collection for SEMEAR indicators and other dissemination

21 campaigns. The students have also selected activities of interest to them and are collecting data for their dissertation write-ups. Appendix 1 provides the list of students and titles of their dissertations or reports.

Table 6 Training sessions conducted during the Second Quarter of FY2020 Province Male Females Total No. Manica 47 93 140 Nampula 75 35 110 Tete 36 43 79 Zambézia 84 80 164 Total 242 251 493

2.2.3. Field days, exchange visits, and meetings

Limited field days and exchanges were organized across SEMEAR project districts during the quarter this season because most of the planned field days were suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Mid-March is the best period to showcase the technologies the project is promoting to improve productivity among smallholder farmers. Four field days were organized in Meconta, Monapo and Ribaué districts, two were held in Gurué district, and seven was organized in Angónia district and one was held in . The field days focused on the technologies in demonstration plots and seed multiplication fields. Key participants included SDAE, seed companies, agro-dealers, community-based seed producers, farmers associations, individual farmers and government officials. Stakeholders were exposed to the potentials of new varieties to strengthen the links for sustainable seed supply systems. The demonstrations also exposed farmers to appropriate agronomic practices to attain higher yields per unit area. In total, 521 individuals (246 males; 275 females) participated in the field days with 53% female participants.

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2.2.3.1 Impact of COVID-19 on SEMEAR Activities

In addition to the restrictions on travel and gatherings, and social distancing measures announced by the government, SEMEAR also put in place other measures to avoid the spread of COVID- 19. The measures affected some planned activities with partners including the following: • Several planned field days and training workshops have been suspended since they require more than 10 people coming together. We will reschedule at the appropriate time. Some of the unique opportunities the different crop growth stages offer for demonstration purposes would be lost but there will be opportunities for other demonstrations when the situation improves. However, some information such as pest and disease control measures, harvesting and post-harvest management is being packaged and disseminated through community radio. In addition, limited field days were conducted where appropriate, by restricting the number of people to 10 or less and providing face masks and hand washing facilities (Figure 6). The meetings begin by educating participants on COVID-19 and the measures to minimize infection and spread including frequent hand washing, the use of face

masks and social distancing. Fig. 6 Field day in Monapo, Nampula province in • Limited supervisory and monitoring sesame certified seed multiplication field visits to partners allowing only staff in the localities to make limited and essential visits. This has delayed seed production information gathering from partners. • SEMEAR scheduled a capacity development workshop on “Early Generation Seed (EGS) Production” for the second week of May 2020 to be facilitated by a Consultant from Brazil. The focus was to train selected staff from IIAM seed production unit or USEBA, Seed Companies and partners. The event is on hold for now. This workshop is a key activity of SEMEAR exit strategy to ensure our partners gain skills in producing EGS before the project ends. We hope we will be able to organize this workshop before September 2020.

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• Non-essential SEMEAR staff who could work from home started working from home to reduce the number of people in the office and this will continue until the Government relaxes the restrictions. • Major activities of SEMEAR field staff continue except suspension of field days and limited monitoring visits but precautionary measures such as using personal protection equipment (PPE) like musk and gloves, maintaining appropriate isolation distances, frequent hand washing etc. are in place. • SEMEAR end-line survey was scheduled to start in mid-April 2020 but the travel and social distancing restrictions have delayed the survey. • Some field operations of partners might be affected. For example, several farmers may not have adequate labor force for weeding or harvesting due to the COVID-19 restrictions.

2.2.4. Gender Issues in SEMEAR Implementation

SEMEAR continues to support women groups and women to increase female participation in project activities. In this quarter, NOSARA women association at Ruace and Associação de Mulheres de Namarripe were assisted with extension advise on crop management. The groups have common fields and also individual members have soybean seed or grain production fields and some host demonstration plots. The grains they produce are processed into different soybean products/recipes (soy flour, soy bread and milk) to be sold in local markets and at trade fairs within the region. Other female partner groups collaborating with SEMEAR include but not limited to Associção de mulheres de Namirequele and Associação de Ana Gulamanha in Mocuba who are involved in soybean grain production and value addition processing. There is a notable interest among women in using the manual hand push legume planter introduced to farmers during the first quarter (Fig. 7). Preliminary data suggest that this equipment significantly reduces the time spent on sowing soybean and cowpea, drudgery and labor cost. The female targeted activities contributed to maintain the improvement in female participation in project activities. For example, female participation in training was similar to the same time last year (51% for FY20 vs. 52% for FY19) but female participation in field days increased from 37% in second quarter last season to 53% same quarter this season.

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Fig. 7. Photo of a Hand Push Legume Planter (Left); A female farmer using the hand Planter (Right)

2.2.5. Environmental Monitoring and Mitigation Plan (EMMP) Compliance

Land preparation and planting conducted during the second quarter were done along the contour to control erosion; hence minimize sediment movement downhill to water bodies. Staff and partners were trained on chemical identification and proper application procedures that prevent contamination of the environment or poisoning of humans and animals. When using any chemicals, protective gear such as gumboots, overalls, masks, gloves and helmets were mandatory and using the right concentration and limited frequency of pesticide use. Only staff and farmers trained in safe use and handling of pesticides were recommended to conduct spraying activities. The project emphasized IPM including the use of rotation and intercropping systems to reduce weeds and pest infestations. All pesticide products procured are registered and approved by USEPA as detailed in the 2017 USAID Mozambique PERSUAP. The pesticides procured for use are also approved by the Mozambican authorities. The insecticides used during the second quarter of FY20 include Cypermethrin and Imidacloprid to control aphids, thrips, pod borers, army worms, and other insects. For fungicides, the chemicals used in the second quarter include Triazoles, Strobilurin and Difenoconazole to control fungi and bacterial diseases.

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3. Communications and farmers’ outreach

SEMEAR embarked on massive communication campaigns as to increase the visibility of the project and showcase its results and impacts on farming households. During the second quarter of FY20, the following activities were conducted. Visibility /Events/documents ✓ Printing and distribution of 100 copies of the Seed Production and Trade Manual (Figure 8). The manuals were distributed to implementing partners, USAID, seed companies, SDAE, farmers’ associations, farmers and other donor projects. ✓ Revision and printing of another set of 1500 units of the 2nd Edition of Seed Manual – the Seed Manual was revised and is ready to be printed for distribution to the wider public in the third and fourth quarters of FY20.

Fig 8: A Copy of the Seed Manual Fig. 9: Agriculture Calendar offered to DPASA Manica by Paula Pimentel (SEMEAR AOR) • Agricultural and Crop Suitability Calendar (Figure 9)) – 200 units were printed on strong, durable and waterproof material for distribution to USAID, all DPASAs, SDAE in the project locations, seed companies, Seed Inspectors, IIAM Directorates, MADER, DINAS, DNEA and other donor funded projects. • SEMEAR document collection – the project has developed a diverse set of useful information to guide and inform stakeholders on crop varieties, best crop management practices, markets and other related and important issues for increased awareness and increased productivity. The information was produced and shared through videos, leaflets,

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manuals, radio programs in both Portuguese and local languages. Meetings were held during the second quarter of FY20 focusing on engaging and linking project partners with IIAM at central and provincial levels to improve collaboration and join synergies in disseminating technologies and practices. APROSE uploaded relevant SEMEAR documents and information on their website www.aprose.org through the link https://aprose.org/sobre- semear/#. Since the migration of SEMEAR content information into APROSE’s website in March 2020, more than 1243 users browsed and visited the webpage, more than 417 users visited the link with SEMEAR content meaning that 33% of the visits was related to the SEMEAR content. • SEMEAR Institutional Website - Project photos and general information are being regularly updated - From January to March the SEMEAR website was visited by 421 users of these, 325 were new visitors. Sixty-five percent (65%) of the users found the website by search tools and only 2% came from other sites linked to SEMAR. • Field Visits In February the Project Communication Officer visited project field activities in Nampula and Zambézia Provinces the aim of the visits was to: - Engage technicians in exploring the communication potential for the development of success stories of different project stakeholders and beneficiaries; identifying material needs and explore existing communication channels to disseminate “best practices” during the agricultural season; - Participate in training sessions conducted by SEMEAR; The project Activity Manager – Paula Pimentel visited SEMEAR field activities in Nampula, Zambézia, Tete and Manica provinces in the second quarter of FY20 to assess implementation and discuss potential interventions to support the development of the national seed sector. The Director General of IIAM, Dra Olga Faftine participated in the visit to Angónia district in Tete province. Participants discussed how to improve the performance of IIAM Basic Seed Unit and sharing of experiences and information among SEMEAR partners including IIAM. • Radio programs & agricultural fairs The outbreak of the COVID-19 Pandemic and the resulting restrictive measures on travel and gatherings have constrained partners and farmers to come together for agricultural fairs where

27 seeds, chemicals and services are exhibited and promoted. To some extent labor scarcity for harvest is becoming a challenge. To support farmers, the project has developed Radio programs to be aired in the project locations and has incorporated information on the prevention infection and spread of COVID-19 with best practices for harvest and post-harvest handling.

4. Project Performance Indicators

During the second quarter, the SEMEAR team established four additional partnerships making a total of 27 partnerships (Table 7) or FY2020. These were useful for the establishment of demonstrations, seed production fields and capacity building. During the period 46 farmer organizations and 12 for-profit organizations were supported to facilitate training, provide seeds and establish seed and grain demonstration fields.

Through this strategy the project was able to train 493 additional farmers, even though some of the training was postponed. The benefits of the partnership were more visible as it enabled the project to facilitate access to seeds, demonstrated technologies, inputs and other useful information. Eventually, the project was able to reach additional number of 36,117 farmers, making a total of 69,969 farmers by the end of the end of second quarter (Table 7). This achievement shows the importance of partnerships in the implementation of interventions in times of a pandemic like COVID 19.

Table 7: Capacity development in the Second Quarter of FY2020 Indicator Second Quarter Bi-annual Annual Disaggregation Target Results Target Results Target Partnerships (N) Production 0 4 25 27 25 Type Beneficiary For-profit 9 12 19 22 26 organizations Producer 53 46 68 59 81 (N) Total 62 58 87 81 107 Individuals Farmers 1,203 493 1,403 709 3,492

28 trained (N) Extension 65 0 69 0 108 Total 1,268 493 1,472 709 3,600 Farmers 28,397 36,117 62,794 69,969 72,750 Individual People in beneficiaries government 103 0 206 0 2,250 (N) Total 28,500 36,117 63,000 69,969 75,000

SEMEAR has not only contributed to an increased participation of female farmers in the legume production system in FtF ZOI but has also contributed to the significant increase in the number of youths in the legume production system. At the moment female farmers constitute over 40% of the farmers who benefited from the project (Figure 10). The results show that a similar proportion of the female farmers applied improved technologies as well as the area under improved technologies (Figure 10).

Figure 10: Gender disaggregation of selected indicators (Left); Age disaggregation of selected indicators (Right)

Figure 10 also shows that the youth constituted almost 45% of SEMEAR beneficiaries and 45% of the farmers who applied improved technologies are youth. A similar percentage of the area under improved technologies is owned by the youth. Since the inclusion of youth disaggregation in the project indicators, the project team has systematically targets young farmers to lead field demonstrations, participated in training activities and produce seeds. We expect the young farmers to contribute their incomes to the sustenance of their households and empowers them take up leadership roles within their communities.

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During the second quarter 30,124 farmers applied improved legume production technologies on 32,025 ha of land (Table 8). The results suggest that almost all the farmers supported by the project applied the technologies introduced to them. This is an indication of the effectiveness of the SEMEAR approach which includes facilitation of access to seeds, inputs and relevant production information. We expect the farmers to show significant improvement in their yields and incomes at the end of the season.

Table 8: Technology application in the Second Quarter of FY2020 Indicator Second Quarter Bi-annual Annual Disaggregation Target Results Target Results Target Crop genetics 9,000 12,208 18,000 24,699 25,500 Number of Cultural practices 21,000 16,916 42,000 36,080 59,500 farmers (N) Total 30,000 30,124 60,000 60,779 85,000 Crop genetics 14,762 14,041 43,333 37,460 50,000

Area (ha) Cultural practices 16,238 17,984 47,667 57,043 60,000 Total 31,000 32,025 91,000 94,502 110,000

5. Major Implementation Issues • The COVID-19 pandemic has limited field activities with partners because of travel and gathering restrictions. Planned field days and capacity building activities have been suspended.

6. Collaboration with other donor projects SEMEAR continues to collaborate with other donor-funded projects reported previously in the first quarter of FY20. The collaboration with APROSE has been improved with the agreement and sharing of SEMEAR documents and information on their website. The collaboration with APROSE will be reinforced when the Seed Award implementation discussions are finalized 30

among FtF INOVA, SEMEAR and APROSE. Another important result from the collaboration with FtF INOVA is the identification of Hub Agrodealers and agrodealers to be linked to seed producers supported by SEMEAR. Example is the existing link between Hélder Comercial, AKILA Agro and Olima Farm. The latter supported by SEMEAR to produce and market improved legume seeds in Malema in Nampula province. A new collaboration with Escola-do- Agricultor has been established in order to identify and incorporate SEMEAR beneficiaries who will “show case” and provide testimony about the benefits of using improved seeds and best agricultural practices for increased productivity.

7. Key Activities Planned for Next Quarter

• Monitor and harvest pre-basic and basic seed • Seed processing, cleaning and packaging • Harvest demonstration plots • Monitor and support certified seed producers • Link seed producers to the Seed Inspection Units for inspection and certification of seeds • Conduct stakeholder training on post-harvest handling and seed business • Conduct capacity building workshop on early generation seed production when possible • Organize and conduct field days • Conduct demonstrations on common beans under irrigation • Support IIAM to produce breeder and pre-basic seed under irrigation at Chokwe • Finalize SEMEAR infographic for printing, publish and distribute to wider public • Print 1.500 copies of the SEMEAR Seed Manual and distribute to stakeholders • Update SEMEAR website with articles on activities and events • Share photos and testimonials on AgriLink • Conduct SEMEAR end-line study • Collect data from partners and project beneficiaries

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8. Evaluation / Assessment Update Evaluations, Assessments, Studies and Audits Include any and all types of evaluations, financial or programmatic, internal or external. Completed: List evaluations, assessments, Major Findings/Recommendations studies and/or audits held last year No on-going studies Planned: List evaluations, assessments, studies, and/or audits planned for next two quarters. 1. End-line study to assess adoption and impact of SEMEAR

9. Administrative Update No administrative issues to be updated

10. Financial Information During the second quarter of FY2020, SEMEAR spent an estimated US$346,352 on cost items indicated in Table 9. The information provided below comes from records of local expenditures in Nampula. The official financial report will be submitted by IITA Headquarters. Cost share contribution is not applicable to SEMEAR.

Table 9 – Estimated SEMEAR expenditures from 1 January 2020 to 31 March 2020.

Order Cost Item Description US$

1 Office cost, Include: security, rents, suppliers 10,870 supplies (electricity, water) stationary, and others

2 Field activities Include: land preparations, chemicals, 25,333 and suppliers materials, field day supplies, etc.)

3 Travels Include: allowances (Per diem and 17,989 accommodation) and tickets

4 Training and Include: farmer training, field days, project 8,202

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workshops planning and review meetings, etc.

5 Personnel Staff salaries, casual staff wages, taxes, and 119,290 allowances

6 Consultancy Include: hiring of enumerators and other 12,287 Services consultants

7 Other direct costs Including communications and minor 98,038 purchases

Sub-Total 292,009

Overhead (18.61%) 54,343

Grand Total 346,352

11. Success Story

“When women work together, they achieve more and create more wealth that leads to food secured households…”

The Story of Rosita Feliciano, a serious farmer, household head and association leader

Born in 1974 at Mecuaziua in of Nampula province, Rosita Feliciano started primary school in 1981 and in 1991, she left school and moved to Nacololo near the Monapo town to stay with her husband, Sr Miranda Armando who worked as Security Officer in Monapo. In Monapo, she stayed at home doing house chores for a while and then started farming at her husband’s farm in Nacololo. Rosita has 3 children: Aurora Aurélio, a girl of 26 years who is finishing Degree in Law at the Catholic University in Nampula; her son Jaimito Miranda is 23 years, working for Conselho Comunitário de Saúde (CCS) in Nacololo and the last born is Zacarias Miranda aged 18 and still in school.

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Low yields of sesame and cowpeas

Her farming experience resulted in very low yields on her sesame and cowpea fields due to the use of poor seeds, planting outside the planting window, best practices were not followed. She then heard about a Farmer’s Association in Nacololo and joined in 2005. In the association she learnt new farming techniques for sesame, cowpea and maize. In the association Rosita held the position of advisor and nutrition promoter what allowed her to interact with lots of women in the communities while disseminating nutrition messages. The Association was supported by CARE International and CLUSA. As an active member of the association whose member are predominately men, she felt that womens’ needs were not appropriately addressed in the association. “We learnt that men only cared about their issues and our issues were always regarded as not important and most of the times they were not addressed…” Rosita said.

Then in 2006, Rosita and other 15 women established the “Associação das Mulheres de Nacololo Nivenhe”, Rosita became the group leader and promoter of production and nutrition activities.

Women’s Association of Nacololo promoting sesame and cowpea varieties

In 2016, SEMEAR started activities in Monapo and engaged many Farmer’s Associations to partner with in the dissemination of improved technologies. Associação das Mulheres de Nacololo Nivenhe, was identified, trained in the establishment of demonstration plots for sesame and cowpea, while other members planted individual plots of 0.5 to 1 ha using some of the improved varieties and best practices the project disseminated. Rosita said: “in this year we realised that working together we could achieve more, and we could harvest good crops that could feed our households.”. In 2016, Rosita harvested 400 kg of sesame out of 0.5 ha field she had established. “It was a remarkable achievement I rarely got 200 kg in the previous years...” She said. All the harvest was sold at 50MZN/kg. She had also planted 1 ha maize, 0.5ha mung beans and 0.5 ha cowpea IT16 which did not respond very well

Better seed varieties and use of best crop production practices improved yields and incomes

In 2017 while working with SEMEAR, the members expanded their sesame, maize, mung bean and cowpea fields motivated by good results obtained in 2016. They also established sesame and cowpea varieties demonstrations. Rosita planted 1.5 ha maize, 1 ha sesame, 1 ha mung bean, 0.5 ha cowpea; and 0.5 ha groundnuts. The maize crop was used as an Aflasafe demonstration field in partnership with IITA to evaluate aflatoxin contamination in maize grains. She harvested 350 kg cowpea from 0.5 ha and sold all to IKURU and harvest from groundnuts was sold locally

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unshelled. Sesame and mung beans had good yields 817 kg/ha and 800 kg/ha, respectively. The sesame was sold at 70 MZN/kg while the mung bean was sold at 25-30MZN/kg.

In 2018, she expanded her maize field to 2 ha; planted 0.5 ha cowpea; 1 ha groundnuts, 1 ha mung bean and 1 ha sesame. She harvested 2.5ton maize; 300 kg cowpea; 800 kg beans and 900kg sesame. The sesame was sold at 80 MZN/kg and THE mung beans at 30MZN/kg. The maize, cowpea and groundnuts we kept for household consumption.

With good yield results, better incomes and access to various support in terms of production and marketing capacities from SEMEAR, legal and cooperative formation support provided by Ophavela, ProSavana and AMPCM, the Associação de Mulheres de Nacololo Nivenhe was legally registered as “Cooperativa das Mulheres de Nacololo Nivenhe” (Women’s Cooperative of Nacololo Nivenhe) aimed at creating opportunities for women members to make impact in the communities. The Cooperative was officially published in the National Gazette in 2019 and now has 23 active women members

Role model and household head

In 2019, Rosita planted 1.5 ha maize, 0.5 ha cowpea; 1 ha mung bean; 1 ha groundnuts and 1 ha sesame fields. Yields for sesame and mung bean were 1 ton and 850 kg, respectively. Sesame was sold at 85-90 MZN/kg while the mung bean was sold at 50 MZN/kg.

In 2019, having generated significant income and savings, she convinced her husband to start building a new house with cement blocks (Fig 13). “I had a lot of money in my hands, my house started in January 2019 and by July the walls were all finalized…” said Rosita. This created a lot of admiration from her colleagues who also started to make investments in their households. “I don’t wait for my husband anymore, sometimes it’s giving him money”, she said laughing…

The cooperative is growing and, the savings were invested in a chicken breeding shed (Fig 12) where they breed and rear day-old chick into broilers that are sold alive in Nacololo. “We are the only chicken sellers here in Nacololo and even people from Namialo come to Nacololo to buy chicken from the “Cooperativa das Mulheres de Nacololo Nivenhe”, she noted.

Agriculture is the future despite the Covid-19 Pandemic

Sesame production is growing because of the good and stable prices in previous years, combined with good yields from improved varieties promoted by SEMEAR. Farmers like Rosita saw the need to increase the area planted in the current year. Rosita alone, planted 1.5 ha of sesame (harvest will start in a few weeks), 1 ha groundnuts which has been harvested and being dried for threshing (Fig 10 & 11), 1 ha mung beans being harvested and ¼ ha cowpea for household 35

consumption. Rosita says that despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the sesame and mung bean will yield very well which will allow them to complete their new house on time.

She also encourages farmers to work in organized groups, that makes it easier to get support on capacity development and technologies which will lead to improved productivity. She ended by saying that she received lots of training from SEMEAR and other projects which enabled her and other women members to have prosperous future in agriculture and continue to plant smiles at home.

Fig 11 – Rosita and her daughterAurora Aurélio Fig 12 – Rosita at her groundnuts “V” shape dryer

V Fig 13 – Rosita standing at the Cooperatives Fig 14 – Rosita standing at her new building chicken house

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Appendix 1. Information on short-term student training on the project (2019/2020)

No Name Gender Degree Institution Start date End date Research topic

The effects of different planting methods (hand-push planter, hand-hoe with rope in Dalmazia da Inst. Medio rows and hand-hoe with no planting 1 Catia Maloa Female Diploma Agro-pecuario 2 Jan 30 June pattern) and gender on soybean Carvalho de Gurué performance and grain yield in Gurué District

The effect of different peat based Osmen Costa UCM- 2 Male B.Sc. 2 Jan 30 June inoculants on growth and grain yield of Contente Cuamba soybean under Gurué agro ecology

The efficiency of indigenous rhizobia Samia strains isolated in Mozambique soils on UCM- 3 Adelino Female B.Sc. 2 Jan 30 June growth, nodulation, and yield components Cuamba Manuel of promiscuous and non-promiscuous soybean varieties in Gurué district

Samith Inst. Medio The effect of rock phosphorus application 4 Vilinho Male Diploma Agro-pecuario 2 Jan 30 June on growth and yield components of three Abeque de Gurué cowpea genotypes grown in Gurué district

Nelson Price effect on the participation of Unizambeze- 5 Damiao Male Bsc 2 Jan 30 June producers in the common beans Value Mocuba Pitala chain

Unizambeze Responses of soybean variety Wamini to Manuel Joao 6 Male Bsc Angónia 2 Jan 30 June inputs use in Angónia Agro-ecological Macahaire zone

Tendai Unizambeze Performance of indigenous rizhobia on 7 Male Bsc 2 Jan 30 June Avelino Angónia two soybean varieties in Angónia district

Sifa Uni. Mussa Evaluation of the drought tolerance of five 8 Maurício Female B.Sc. Bim Bique 2 Jan 30 June maize varieties under Nampula agro- Chave Nampula ecology

Júlio Abel Uni. Mussa Assessing the resistance of five maize 9 Baulene Male B.Sc. Bim Bique 2 Jan 30 June varieties (Zea mays L.) to the parasitic Nampula Striga at Muriaze, Rapale district

Faizaldo Uni. Mussa Evaluation of the effects of cowpea variety 10 Horácio Male B.Sc. Bim Bique 2 Jan 30 June and planting dates on cowpea-maize Miguel Nampula intercropping combinations

Nduwimana Uni.Mussa Performance of cowpea (Vigna 11 Félicien Male B.Sc. Bim Bique 2 Jan 30 June unguiculata) in response to inoculant and Nampula nitrogen fertilizer in

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