Mangoes are a popular fruit throughout the world, and Africa is one of the major producers of mangoes. In fact, Africa accounts for about 4% of global mango production. The top producing countries in Africa are Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Mali, Mozambique, Senegal, and South Africa. These countries produce a wide variety of mangoes, including Tommy Atkins, Keitt, and Kent mangoes.
Major Producing Countries
Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso, a landlocked country in West Africa, is an emerging player in the African mango scene. Despite its semi-arid climate, the country has managed to cultivate mangoes successfully, particularly in the southwestern regions. Burkina Faso's mangoes are known for their unique flavor and high quality, making them increasingly popular in international markets.
Burkina Faso is the leading producer of mangoes in Africa, with an annual production of over 600,000 tons. Mangoes are an important crop for the country's economy, and they are a major source of export revenue.
Ivory Coast
The Ivory Coast is another major producer of mangoes in Africa, with an annual production of over 500,000 tons.
Côte d'Ivoire is the second-largest producer and exporter of mangoes in Africa. With favorable climatic conditions and vast agricultural lands, the country has made mango cultivation a significant part of its economy. The majority of Ivorian mangoes are exported to Europe, particularly France, making it a key player in the international mango market.
Mali
Mali, located in the heart of the Sahel region in West Africa, is another significant producer and exporter of mangoes. Despite its largely arid climate, the country has leveraged its riverine areas, particularly along the Niger River, to cultivate a variety of crops, including mangoes.
Mali is the third-largest producer of mangoes in Africa, with an annual production of over 400,000 tons. Mangoes are a major source of income for farmers in Mali, and they are also an important export crop.
Mozambique
Mozambique, located on the southeastern coast of Africa, is a rising star in the realm of mango production. Blessed with a tropical climate and fertile soils, the country provides ideal conditions for mango cultivation.
Mozambique is the fourth-largest producer of mangoes in Africa, with an annual production of over 300,000 tons. Mangoes are a popular fruit in Mozambique, and they are also an important export crop.
Senegal
Senegal, situated on the westernmost tip of Africa, is a significant player in the continent's mango production and export industry. The country's tropical climate and fertile soils provide ideal conditions for mango cultivation, allowing it to produce a variety of mangoes known for their rich, sweet flavor and vibrant color.
Senegal is the fifth-largest producer of mangoes in Africa, with an annual production of over 200,000 tons. Mangoes are a popular fruit in Senegal, and they are also an important export crop.
South Africa
South Africa, known for its diverse landscapes and climates, is a significant contributor to the African mango industry. The country's subtropical regions, particularly Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces, provide ideal conditions for mango cultivation.
South African mangoes are celebrated for their sweet, tangy flavor and high nutritional content. The 'Tommy Atkins' and 'Kent' varieties, in particular, are popular both locally and internationally. South Africa exports its mangoes to various countries, including those in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, contributing to its robust agricultural export sector.
South Africa is the ninth-largest producer of mangoes in Africa, with an annual production of over 300,000 tons. Mangoes are a popular fruit in South Africa, and they are also an important export crop.
Major Export Countries
Top 10 Mango Producers and Exporters in Africa (as of 2023), ordered by annual production:
| Position | Country | Production (tons) | Export (tons) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Egypt | 1,277,008 | 200,000 |
| 2 | Nigeria | 917,617 | 100,000 |
| 3 | Sudan | 785,940 | 50,000 |
| 4 | Kenya | 700,000 | 100,000 |
| 5 | Tanzania | 650,000 | 50,000 |
| 6 | Burkina Faso | 600,000 | 400,000 |
| 7 | Ivory Coast | 500,000 | 300,000 |
| 8 | Mali | 400,000 | 200,000 |
| 9 | South Africa | 350,000 | 100,000 |
| 10 | Mozambique | 300,000 | 100,000 |
The top export countries of mangoes in Africa are Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Mozambique. These countries export mangoes to a variety of markets around the world, including Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
Mangoes are more than just a delicious fruit in Africa; they are a significant contributor to the economies of many countries. As the demand for this tropical fruit continues to grow globally, African countries like Côte d'Ivoire, Senegal, Kenya, and Egypt are poised to play an even more significant role in the international mango market.