Coffee producers in Mozambique emphasized the role of coffee cultivation in conserving biodiversity at the Coffee Festival in Maputo. They highlighted how coffee farming has restored ecosystems, especially in regions like Gorongosa National Park, which suffered from deforestation due to past conflicts. Pedro Muagura from the park noted that engaging local women in coffee production has promoted conservation efforts. Both Muagura and Daniel Razão, from the Mupandeia Agro-Cintropic Association, stressed the importance of integrating cash crops like coffee with food crops to avoid food shortages. Razão also pointed out that coffee thrives under shade, which encourages the planting of other trees, aiding biodiversity. Genaro Lopez of the Mozambican Coffee Association advocated for business practices that support environmental preservation. Agriculture Minister Celso Correia underscored Mozambique's potential in the organic coffee market, highlighting the country's position in producing specialty coffees, which could elevate it to the rare coffee class. This approach aligns with global trends favoring organic and biodiversity-friendly products.
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