African-grown ginger appeals to Canadians exploring sustainable food sources

Goodwave Technology has brought a new sustainable source of ginger to Canadians, and is sowing seeds of hope and success in Africa.

The ginger, grown in Mozambique, is currently sold at select Loblaw locations across Canada.

“Our aim is to provide a high-quality source of produce to Canadians, while positively contributing to the sustainable development of Mozambique,” says Hera Landry, sales manager at Goodwave Technology, a company that specializes in product innovation and development of exotic and root produce items, and is a supplier of ginger, garlic and lychee to major grocery retailers in both Canada and the U.S.

“The project has created about 500 jobs for people in Mozambique, helping to improve people’s lives,” adds Landry. “We’ve shown that with the right effort and investment, African countries can cultivate fresh produce with high export volume—a relatively untapped resource today.”

Goodwave Technology developed the project with support from Norfund, Norway’s Development Finance Institution, which is wholly owned and funded by the Norwegian government and invests in sectors and countries where they can have the greatest positive impact; and Neofresh, a South African-based company specializing in the production of unique tropical and sub-tropical crops in Southern Africa.

Mozambique was chosen for the new project because it is one of the poorest countries in the world. Agriculture continues to be the mainstay of Mozambique’s economy, yet only 16% of land suitable for farming is currently cultivated. Its geographic location between landlocked countries and ocean ports raises its potential to play a role in regional food security and international markets.

The ginger is grown using organic methods and principles, and the project is in the process of obtaining organic certification.

Landry says health-conscious consumers gravitate towards ginger’s many health benefits. She believes the added layer of corporate social responsibility will also appeal to produce shoppers, particular younger consumers.

“Generation Y and millennials are more mindful of the importance of CSR and sustainable development,” says Landry. “At Goodwave, we care about making the world a better place for everyone, and we know Canadians do as well.”

Goodwave Technology plans to start growing other products, such as garlic, in Africa next year. “We’re excited to use our expertise to explore even more sustainable food sources,” says Landry.