At the Umbeluzi Agricultural Station in Maputo Province, Mozambique, vast rice fields are in the midst of the harvest season, presenting a scene of high productivity.

The site is an integrated rice production base established under the co-operation between the fourth group of Chinese agricultural experts and the Institute of Agricultural Research of Mozambique (IIAM). The initiative focuses on demonstrating high-yield varieties, conducting agricultural trials, improving seeds, and disseminating modern cultivation techniques.

"From soil preparation to fertilisation and pest control, the Chinese experts have introduced a complete set of systematic cultivation techniques," said Tito Chimbamba, an agricultural technician at the Umbeluzi station. According to Chimbamba, this co-operation has enabled him to acquire essential skills in rice cultivation, as well as in the operation and maintenance of agricultural machinery.

According to a rice and agro-processing specialist from the Chinese agricultural team, preliminary estimates indicate that rice production in the demonstration fields has exceeded 8 tonnes per hectare, significantly surpassing local traditional yields. On some plots, yields have even exceeded 10 tonnes per hectare.

As an important part of bilateral co-operation between the two countries, Chinese agricultural experts continue to support Mozambique in improving productivity and contributing to food security and agricultural development.

(Source: Xinhua Português, on 2 April)