The adoption of agroecological practices is an effective way to address environmental and economic crises, as well as a path to ensuring food security and sustainability. This is the view of agricultural engineer Jossias Ignácio, who recently gave an interview to Mozabive magazine. During the conversation, he advocated for the adoption of agroecological practices as a more effective way to promote the sustainable development of Mozambique.
Jossias Ignácio began his approach by defining agroecology as a science, practice, or movement that promotes harmonious interaction between agriculture, the environment, and communities. He noted that in Mozambique, 90 percent of the population practices family and traditional agriculture, making it more urgent to transition to agroecology. This transition requires awareness and education, as many farmers still do not fully understand this concept or its benefits.
“Biodiversity in production fields is crucial for the resilience of agricultural systems,” he considers, explaining that this science creates synergies that increase productivity and sustainability, being “the most efficient way to take advantage of available natural resources without relying excessively on external inputs.”
During the conversation, Jossias Ignácio indicated that agroecology maximizes the use of natural resources and minimizes waste. It would be beneficial in Mozambique, where many farmers have limited resources. “By recycling nutrients and biomass, farmers can reduce costs and improve soil health,” he commented.
RESILIENT SYSTEMS
He also highlighted the importance of the resilience of agroecological systems. “With climate change, our agricultural systems need to be able to adapt and withstand shocks,” he explained. He mentioned that crop diversification and soil health improvement are key strategies to increase resilience, making systems more robust against extreme weather events.
The participation of local communities is another fundamental principle of agroecology, after all, “collective management and community involvement are essential for the success of agroecological practices.” Farmers, he continued, must have their rights protected and their traditions respected. Moreover, agroecological practices also preserve cultural heritage and agricultural traditions.
For Jossias Ignácio, it is important to protect soil health and animal welfare. Additionally, it is necessary to promote a circular and supportive economy that is inclusive and equitable, that is, “agroecology can create a fairer economy with less environmental impact.”
Jossias spoke about the need for policies and governance structures that support the transition to agroecology and stressed that, to achieve sustainable development, a joint effort is required between the government, communities, and organizations to implement policies that favor these practices.
THERE ARE MANY SUCCESS STORIES
To illustrate the positive impact of agroecology, he shared some of the most impressive success stories. In Mozambique, there are 80 associations composed of eight thousand farmers promoted by the non-governmental organization ActionAid. These farmers reported a significant increase in their production, now harvesting twice a year, in contrast to only one annual harvest before the adoption of agroecology.
He mentioned a significant improvement in food security. “Previously, farmers faced five months of food shortages after the harvest. Now that period has been reduced to three months,” he explained.
Throughout the interview, Jossias Ignácio provided a broader view of how agroecology can transform agriculture in Mozambique, promoting more sustainable, productive, and resilient development.
(By Renaldo Manhice)
