Challenges and Drivers for the Adoption of Improved Solar Drying Technologies in Mango Farming: A Case Study of Smallholder Farmers in Mozambique

Paula Viola Salvador (), Selorm Kugbega, Claudia Lazarte, Lucas Tivana and Federico Gómez Galindo
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Paula Viola Salvador: Division of Food and Pharma, Department of Process and Life Science Engineering, Lund University, 221 00 Lund, Sweden
Selorm Kugbega: Stockholm Environment Institute, 115 23 Stockholm, Sweden
Claudia Lazarte: Division of Food and Pharma, Department of Process and Life Science Engineering, Lund University, 221 00 Lund, Sweden
Lucas Tivana: Faculty of Agronomy and Forestry Engineering, Centre of Excellence in Agri-Food Systems and Nutrition, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo 257, Mozambique
Federico Gómez Galindo: Division of Food and Pharma, Department of Process and Life Science Engineering, Lund University, 221 00 Lund, Sweden

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 18, 1-24

Abstract: Mango production plays a vital role in rural livelihoods in Mozambique, yet post-harvest losses remain high, ranging from 25% to over 50%, due to inadequate preservation methods. Improved solar drying technologies offer a sustainable solution by extending shelf life and enhancing product quality. However, their adoption among smallholder mango farmers remains limited. This study investigates the key barriers and drivers influencing the uptake of these technologies in three districts of Inhambane Province, through a combination of literature review and semi-structured interviews. Major barriers include limited technical knowledge, high upfront costs, poor market access, and limited institutional support. Field data show that over 80% of farmers are unaware of improved fruit drying techniques, and fewer than 5% have received any training. While the literature emphasizes environmental sustainability and policy support, field interviews highlight a stronger interest in practical enablers, such as affordable systems, hands-on training, and income-generating potential. The study calls for a multisectoral approach, involving financial support, capacity-building, and strengthened extension services to promote adoption. Scaling solar drying technologies can significantly reduce post-harvest losses and strengthen the mango value chain, contributing to food security and rural development in Mozambique.

Keywords: mango production; post-harvest losses; solar drying technologies; adoption barriers; adoption drivers (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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