Mercado fresco de batata-doce no distrito da Manhiça, província de Maputo

Abstract

The present study has as its general objective the description of the functioning of the sweet potato market in Manhiça district, Maputo province and as specific objectives (1) identification of sweet potato production and its destination; (2) analysis of pricing behavior used by sellers; (3) identification of the difficulties faced in forwarding their products to the consumer market. To achieve these objectives, a survey was carried out, using an interview, observing the activities developed and finally, informally, producers and sellers were interviewed The results of the study show that sweet potato is grown in all regions of the district, mostly by peasants, and in areas smaller than one hectare. The “traditional” varieties are the most cultivated in all areas of the study, compared to the orange pulp. The northern part of the district was reported to have low production of this crop, for “both” varieties. Meanwhile, the South zone is the guarantor of production at the district level. For the production of traditional varieties, producers acquire propagation material from third parties (friends, neighbours, family members and other acquaintances), while for the orange pulp variety, initially they acquire it from institutions dedicated to promotion and distribution. of this variety. Afterwards, this variety is spread by transference from peasant to peasant, constituting the most used mechanism in the diffusion of this variety. Sweet potato is produced for food and sale. The sale is made from the machamba, in local markets, in markets in other districts, as well as in the city of Maputo, wholesale and retail. Wholesale is normally made in 50 kg bags, and prices range from 110,000 Mts to 150,000 Mts/bag. Retailing is done in “little mounds”, costing 5,000 Mts and 10,000 Mts, respectively, according to the size of the potato. The lack of market infrastructures (facilities), transport, and market information, in general, constitutes a factor that hinders the commercial activity of this culture.