Socioeconomic Impact of Agricultural Projects Financed by the District Development Fund: Case Study of the District of Vilankulo - Mozambique

Abstract

According to the Constitution of the Republic of Mozambique, agriculture is recognized as the cornerstone of the country's development. However, the levels of production and productivity in this sector remain low. In response to this challenge, the Government established and implemented the District Development Fund (DDF) to provide financial support for economic activities, with a particular focus on agriculture (IBIS, 2010). Therefore, the goal of this research was to analyze the socioeconomic impact of the DDF on the beneficiary communities. To achieve this objective, semi-structured interviews of 36 beneficiaries of DDF and unsystematic observations were conducted. The results indicated that all participants reported a significant increase, six times higher than before, in their agricultural production areas. This enhancement allowed for the expansion and diversification of agricultural products. The surplus generated from the sale of these products was used for personal purposes, such as purchasing radios, telephones, school supplies for their children, and improving their housing conditions. Consequently, these improvements significantly enhanced the quality of life for those involved in agriculture. These findings strongly align with the objectives underlying the creation of the DDF and could serve as an exemplar for other districts within the country. In conclusion, it can be affirmed that the DDF has made significant contributions to improving the living conditions of the beneficiary population in the district of Vilankulo.