Uge: The Vila Nova farm, situated in the main municipality of Uge province, has commenced harvesting what is expected to amount to over 200 tons of corn by February. This harvest is taking place over an area of 65 hectares.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the farm’s previous agricultural year saw 68 farmers harvesting 100 tons of corn. The increase in production for the current agricultural year is attributed to the acquisition of a tractor and an increase in labor, as explained by the farm’s spokesperson, Almeida Lutucuta. Farmers have already harvested more than 20 tons and aim to exceed 200 tons by February.
Lutucuta emphasized the farm’s intention to boost production, which in turn could lower purchase prices for the local population. The farm produced over 700 tons of various products during the 2023/24 agricultural season, including cabbage, tomatoes, eggplant, onions, and watermelon. The prospect for this year is to double production, with new plantings beginning in February.
Access to Vila Nova farm is challenging, especially during the rainy season, leading to significant losses of products such as watermelon and sweet potatoes due to poor road conditions. The recent heavy rainfall has exacerbated these access issues, raising concerns about product transportation to markets.
To ease the workload, the farm has acquired a small threshing machine capable of shelling a ton of corn in five minutes. Despite this progress, Lutucuta expressed the need for financing, estimated between Akz 250 and Akz 300 million, to purchase a grinding machine for producing cornmeal and other transport means. This investment would not only aid in processing but also increase employment opportunities.
Established in 2018, Vila Nova farm began with three workers and has now expanded to over 60 workers, cultivating 98 hectares, with a total of 240 hectares available for further expansion.