Mozambique’s poultry industry to experience US$300M in loss after post-election protests

MOZAMBIQUE – The poultry industry in Mozambique is facing a crisis, with nationwide losses estimated at US$300 million due to violent protests that erupted after the National Elections Commission (CNE) announced the results of the October elections last year.

For nearly two months, the sector was paralyzed as protests disrupted production and crippled supply chains, putting the livelihoods of numerous workers and businesses at risk.

Yacub Latif, vice president of the Agribusiness, Nutrition, and Food Industry Department at the Confederation of Economic Associations of Mozambique (CTA), stated that the protests severely disrupted access to essential materials, including eggs and incubators, hindering poultry farming activities.

The unrest also led to widespread vandalism and looting, adding to the industry’s already significant challenges.

A shortage of key supplies, such as feed, has thrown the poultry market into disarray, with quality being compromised due to the unavailability of vital ingredients.

In December, the effects of the crisis became visible in the Greater Maputo Region, where live chickens were notably smaller than usual, highlighting the disruption felt by both large producers and small-scale farmers.

Latif expressed concern that prolonged instability could further harm the economy, with many businesses facing closure and thousands of jobs at risk.

Small poultry growers, who rely on the industry as their primary source of income, are particularly vulnerable, as they lack the resources and safety nets to weather such turmoil.

The poultry sector, once thriving, had been projected to produce 104,000 metric tons of chicken meat by 2026, marking a 1.5% annual growth from 95,000 metric tons in 2021.

In 2021, production hit 135,000 tons, a 13% increase from the previous year, while consumption reached 108,000 metric tons.

Exports in 2022 amounted to US$150,000, while imports were valued at US$60.3 million.

The country has nine hatcheries that produce 46.5 million day-old chicks annually, despite the ongoing challenges in the sector.

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