Incatema provides technical assistance for SMEs in Angola to improve the value chain in the production of pulses

10 February, 2022

Incatema is implementing a Technical Assistance programme in Angola for the Commercial Agriculture Development Project (CADP) which aims to promote agricultural development in this African country through actions that support small producers and SMEs. This Technical Assistance focuses principally on those value chains considered to be a priority in the country, which include among others the production of pulses, particularly soy and beans.

The Technical Assistance contract, which has a budget of 4 million euros financed by the World Bank and French Development Agency, is in effect since August 2020 and has a 4-year duration. Its main purpose is to improve efficiency in the farming sector, by helping producers and processing and marketing SMEs to develop Business Plans that improve their agricultural operations, as we previously reported here.

On the occasion of the celebration of World Pulses Day, Ana Romero, Incatema’s Director of Consulting, affirms that “growing pulses in Angola is fundamental for sustainable food production and dietary improvement. As a product it is highly nutritious and financially affordable for the population, improving and completing local families’ diet and reducing levels of malnutrition especially in boys and girls aged under 5”.

A beneficial crop for soil fertility and a tool against climate change

Pulses are an important source of protein and fibre. According to data of the FAO, pulses also contain high levels of trace elements and worldwide contribute significantly to preventing various deficiencies, such as iron deficiency.

At the same time, pulse crops benefit soil fertility and are a tool for fighting against climate change.

According to the FAO, activities that foster the production and consumption of pulses can contribute decisively to achieving many of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in particular SDG 1 (end poverty in all its forms everywhere), SDG 2 (end hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture), SDG 12 (ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns) and SDG 13 (take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts).