Mozambican Cashews

Mozambican Cashews

　　  Mozambique is one of the largest cashew producers in the world and enjoys the reputation of being the "Cashew Capital of the World." Cashews are the country's most famous specialty. Unlike the intense heat typical of most African countries, Mozambique has a relatively mild climate, free from severe floods or droughts, making it ideal for the growth of cashew trees. The country has approximately 30 million cashew trees planted nationwide, and when including wild ones, the number is even greater. On average, each citizen owns six cashew trees, truly living up to its title as the "Cashew Capital of the World."

　　  Africa is rich in plant resources, and most countries have forests that are native to the region. However, Mozambique’s cashew orchards are an exception. In the 16th century, several Portuguese brought a few cashew seeds from Brazil and planted them along Mozambique’s coast, achieving great success. People quickly started cultivating them, and the numerous local monkeys also helped spread the seeds during their migrations. Coupled with the hardy nature of the tree, which thrives without much care, cashew trees soon covered the entire country within a short period. While the American continent once imported many tropical cash crops from Africa, the accidental proliferation of cashew trees in Mozambique can be seen as South America’s “return gift” to Africa.