Farewell to the soldier of Rice development – Carlos Zandamela
A Life of Purpose • A Legacy of Hope
Background
Carlos Zandemala was a distinguished champion of agricultural transformation and rice development across Africa. His work was defined by unwavering commitment, humility, and resilience, leaving a lasting impact on communities and institutions alike. Through his lifelong dedication, he helped advance the vision of a food-secure, self-reliant Africa.
Lead by Mr. Zandamela during Agenda 5 of GM10 |
Study meeting with JICA national staff (in the middle at the back) |
He held a Master of Science degree in Agronomy from the University of the Philippines Los Baños. He worked extensively in Mozambique, supporting rice-based farming systems across the private sector, cooperatives, and smallholder farmers. For over a decade, he contributed to a regional research effort focused on the development, monitoring, and evaluation of rice germplasm in Mozambique, Tanzania, Kenya, Madagascar, and Malawi, in collaboration with experts from the International Rice Research Institute and National Agricultural Research and Extension Systems.
He also led technology transfer initiatives under Sasakawa Global 2000, promoting the adoption of improved agricultural practices, including high-quality seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and mechanization. Until his passing on 21st April 2026, Carlos served with distinction as Senior Regional Advisor for Angola, Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia and Zimbabwe under the Coalition for African Rice Development (CARD), where he remained a respected colleague and a driving force in advancing the rice sector across the region.
The workshop in Malawi (Second front seat from the right) |
The workshop in Angola (the 3rd person from the right in the back |
The funeral and burial service of the late Carlos Zandamela was held on 23rd April 2026 in the vicinity of Maputo, Mozambique.
🖼️ Tribute from CARD Secretariat 🖼️
Farewell to the soldier of Rice development who has become a mascot in our hearts forever
Our hearts are heavy with grief as we mourn the loss of a brother, a friend, a man of conviction—Carlos Zandemala. Dear brother, friend and colleague, you have departed from this world, leaving behind a profound void in our lives and in the fabric of rice cultivation across Africa. The news of your final struggle on earth reached us, rendering me speechless for several minutes, with tears filling our eyes. Our thought brings memory of last month when we had the last interaction with you, you chose the moment and the scene to bid farewell—during the 10th General Meeting of the Coalition for African Rice Development (CARD), in the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, amidst the community of African rice producers.
with Development partners (far right) |
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Annual Rice Sector Review Meeting (ARSRM) in Mozambique
We now found ourselves orphaned of one of the defenders of rice sovereignty in Africa generally, and in Portuguese-speaking African countries.
Indeed, Carlos, you have become, for us, a subtle yet powerful symbol: the bearer of hope for rice sovereignty—patient, humble, and steadfast. You entered the arena of rice development like a soldier, with your cap firmly in place, boots on your feet, and your gaze straight ahead, ready to advance the cause of rice development in Sub-Saharan Africa. You believed in the strength of diligent work and patience because you understood that rice is not merely consumed; it must be respected, listened to, negotiated with—watering it with rain, cultivating it under the sun, with humility and perseverance. It is through this attentive listening, this gentle approach, that you sowed your message.
Gradually, your message took root. Rice cultivation slowly transformed, strengthening in confidence and hope, affirming that Africa can indeed attain sovereignty in this sector.
SADC meeting in Zambia (far left) |
The workshop in Guinea Bissau (far right) |
Today, the land remains silent. Yet, in the whisper of the wind and the rustling of the plants, your laughter still echoes. That deep, reassuring laughter that said: “It will be okay. Tomorrow is another day.”
Thus, the soldier laid down his rifle and emerged as a mascot of hope.
Yes, dear Carlos, you left your role as a soldier to become a mascot of hope—a comforting presence, a symbol of trust and love. You did not seek fame; you simply sowed seeds in our hearts—those of young people, men and women who will continue your journey, inspired by your kindness and determination.
Today, your memory accompanies us. Look upon us, carry our gaze, listen to our silences. And in the rustling of the rice fields and the breath of the wind, your light-hearted laughter will rise again—an eternal echo, simply reminding us that everything is possible, that hope never dies.
Rest in eternal peace, dear Carlos. The campaign has ended, but your message endures.
We take up the torch—hat on our heads, hearts full of your sincerity.
May the land of Mozambique be gentle and light upon you.
You will be missed by us dearly.
24th April 2026
During the retreat in Nairobi |
with CARD Secretariat team |
