Potato − Montesco − Mozambique

About the partnership

Montesco is a seed potato producer and distributor for HZPC-Netherlands. The partnership aims to strengthen the potato value chain by improving farmers’ access to quality seed, enabling them to improve yields and quality and expand market deliveries. It will also conduct research to assess the potential in local and regional markets (Malawi), for both raw and semi-processed (cut and peeled) potatoes.

Achievements

Build technical capacity of lead farmers, also their capacity to train other farmers on good farming practices

Establish demonstration sites, train farmers on the use of quality seeds/inputs and improved production and post-harvest technologies, and (for identified seed producers) seed multiplication techniques

Introduce seed of improved potato varieties, strengthen service provision to farmers

Develop management systems for outgrower schemes, to improve field monitoring, contract management, payments etc

Facilitate seed certification system by training staff of the Mozambique Seed Authority

Conduct study to understand BoP marketing opportunities for C&B Farm Fresh

Targets

Involve 3,000 Smallholder farmers (1,200 women) and 50 small and medium enterprises (10 women-led) by 2017.

Market Segments:

Ware potato for regular markets, local processors (French fries, especially for BoP consumers) and regional market (Malawi).

Project partners

C&B Farm Fresh (processor and seller)

Mozambican Seed Authority, Mozambican Agricultural Authority • IIAM (national research institute)

International Potato Center (CIP)

Green Belt Fertilizers