In a gesture that reinforces its commitment to sustainable development and the well-being of communities, Banco Comercial e de Investimentos (BCI), in partnership with the Municipality of Maputo, handed over agricultural seeds to growers in the city's so-called Green Belt. The initiative took place at the Casa Agrária das Mahotas, forming part of the Bank's social responsibility programme and the celebrations of its 30 years of existence.
The action included the donation of vegetable seeds, notably varieties such as Eden lettuce and Portuguese cabbage, intended for growers organised in farming associations operating in the different municipal districts of Maputo. This support aims to strengthen local productive capacity, contributing to food security and to the livelihood of hundreds of families who depend on agriculture as their main source of income.
On the occasion, BCI's Sustainability Director, José Gamito, stressed that the Bank's commitment to Mozambique goes beyond financial activity, also encompassing initiatives that promote human and social development. According to him, the partnership with the Maputo Municipal Council reflects a shared vision of supporting communities, especially in challenging circumstances.
He also stressed the resilience of the Green Belt growers, who often face adverse weather events, such as floods and inundations, which compromise agricultural productivity. In this context, BCI positions itself as a supportive partner, committed to contributing concrete solutions that help mitigate the impacts of these adversities.
For his part, the Municipality of Maputo's Councillor for Economic Activities and Tourism, Alexandre Muianga, placed the initiative within the 2024–2028 Municipal Development Plan, highlighting the strategic role of partnerships in energising the agricultural sector. Muianga explained that the distribution of the seeds will be led by the municipal team, based on five essential pillars: access to quality seeds, crop diversity, fair prices, technical assistance and an efficient distribution system.
“With the right tools and consistent technical support, it is possible to increase production and guarantee supplies not only to the city of Maputo but also to other provinces”, he said.
On behalf of the beneficiaries, the President of the Union of Farming and Livestock Associations of Maputo City, Tomás Guirrugo, expressed his gratitude for the support received. He said that, during the rainy season, many fields are flooded, seriously affecting production. Initiatives such as this are therefore crucial for resuming farming activities and for continuing work in the fields.
The ceremony was also marked by reference to the solid institutional relationship between BCI and the Municipality of Maputo, built over the years through a number of joint initiatives. These include support for the Maputo Book Fair, projects aimed at young people and actions in the areas of citizenship, health, well-being and environmental sustainability.
More than a simple handover of inputs, this action symbolises the strength of strategic partnerships in promoting local development, showing that when public and private institutions walk together, the results translate into concrete benefits for communities.
