<p>A new cashew nut processing factory has started operations in the district of Palma, Cabo Delgado province, in northern Mozambique, following improvements in security conditions.</p> <p>The factory, which represents an investment of around 30 million meticais (approximately US$1.3 million), has the potential to employ 100 people and the capacity to process 1,500 tons of cashew nuts per year.</p> <p>Inaugurated last week by the governor of Cabo Delgado, Valige Tauabo, the facility is the only one currently operating in the northern part of the province.</p> <p>“With this, we are creating a market for the largest cashew producers in the province, namely, the districts of Nangade, Mueda, Mocímboa da Praia, Muidumbe, and Palma,” Tauabo said.</p> <p>According to the governor, “this factory reflects the investment we are making to achieve economic diversification”.</p> <p>The inauguration of the factory comes at a time when preparations are underway for the<br /> 2024-2025 cashew campaign, expected to launch in Cabo Delgado this October.</p> <p>The governor emphasized that the goal was to strengthen industrialization based on local raw materials, marking a renewed confidence in the region’s recent stabilization.</p> <p>“The inauguration of this factory is a milestone in the new phase of stabilization and development for Palma, in particular, and Cabo Delgado, in general,” he stated.</p> <p>Tauabo described the factory as an example of development which “leaves no doubt that Palma is once again open and safe for investment.”</p> <p>The investment is funded by The Sunshine Approach Foundation, an organization aimed at<br /> making a difference for impoverished communities through the implementation of projects that impact the lives of underprivileged populations.</p>