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Maria Benvinda Levi stated that Mozambique possesses exceptional agroecological conditions and potential for producing sufficient food for both the domestic market and export. She emphasized the need to strengthen food and nutritional security, as well as generate income for Mozambican families.

Call for National Commitment

The statesman spoke in Maputo during the inauguration ceremony of Dino Foi as chairman of the FNDS board, reminding him of the institution's importance for the country's development. Levi insisted that eradicating hunger must become a national commitment that unites the Government, the private sector, partners, and the communities themselves. She noted that the problem of food insecurity, which affects many regions, should gradually become a thing of the past.

Need for System Transformation

Beyond simply increasing production, Levi stressed the necessity of transforming food systems, improving productivity, enhancing market access, and reducing post-harvest losses. She also instructed the newly appointed chairman to promote agro-industrialization, adding value to national products and ensuring that economic growth benefits communities.

Challenges and the Fund's Role

The First Minister reminded that in recent years, Mozambique has faced extreme weather events that threaten agricultural production and destroy vital infrastructure for the population. Therefore, she stated that the fund must become a decisive tool for the country's economic transformation, providing citizens with 'concrete solutions' for inclusive, sustainable, and resilient development, especially for rural residents who are facing the greatest difficulties.

Support for Youth and SMEs

Levi called on the institution to take a leading role in creating opportunities for women and youth, aiming for thousands of Mozambicans to find professional fulfillment without leaving their communities. She pointed out that creating local opportunities stimulates the economy in districts and reduces territorial inequality. The Government of Mozambique expects the fund to transform natural resources, agricultural potential, and human capital into prosperity for all citizens. Furthermore, she asked the fund to support and facilitate access to financing for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises operating in agriculture, forestry, fisheries, environmental protection, renewable energy, sustainable tourism, and the green economy, while demanding transparent resource management and increased value of human capital.

Responsibility of the New Leadership

Dino Foi, in turn, promised to make efforts to understand the fund's operations and develop specific plans for eradicating hunger in line with government directives. He stated that his main goal is to ensure the nutrition of the people of Mozambique.