Catherine Hob – Page 9

Gales Point Farms Visit

Technical Officers from the Ministry of Agriculture were out today visiting farmers from Gales Point. The purpose of the visit was to understand the ground realities and challenges faced by farmers. The technical visit helped to create an effective solution and provide appropriate support to farmers.

During the visit, a comprehensive assessment of the farms and farmers was conducted. The assessment was conducted based on their needs, access to resources, technology, markets, and training.

These initiatives conducted, fosters a collaborative approach between the Ministry of Agriculture and farmers, enabling the implementation of targeted interventions to enhance agricultural productivity, sustainability, and the overall livelihoods of the farming community in Gales Point.

Gardening Training for Youth Cadets

30 youth cadets from the Belmopan police formation participated in the gardening training at the National Agriculture and Trade Showgrounds in Belmopan.

The training ensured that the participants gain a comprehensive understanding of gardening practices. By providing a hands-on experience, the training enabled the youth cadets to develop practical skills that they can apply in various agricultural settings.

Facilitating the training was Extension Officer Abimael Puck who provided valuable information and guidance on best practices.

The training session not only imparted important agricultural knowledge but also empowered the youth cadets to become more self-reliant and potentially opens up opportunities for them to contribute positively to the agriculture sector in their communities. Such initiatives play a crucial role in promoting sustainable agricultural practices and fostering interest in gardening and farming among the younger generation.

Distribution of Agricultural Package to Sembrando Vida Recipients

Agricultural packages were distributed in Stann Creek and Corozal District for recipients of Sembrando Vida. The Sembrando Vida project is a joint initiative between the Governments of Mexico and Belize, established on May 7th, 2022, during the visit of the Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. Its main objective is to promote socio-economic development and cooperation between the two countries in the agricultural sector. The project consists of three main components:

Economic Package: This component provides recipients with $2,000 BZ (Belize dollars) over the duration of the 8-month project. The financial support aims to assist small farmers and individuals involved in agriculture, enabling them to invest in their farming activities and improve their livelihoods.

Agriculture Package: The agriculture package includes essential resources such as seeds, fertilizers, tools, fruit trees, and forest trees. By distributing these resources, the project aims to enhance agricultural productivity in the regions of Stann Creek and Corozal District. This support will likely contribute to increasing crop yields, diversifying agricultural production, and promoting sustainable farming practices.

Capacity Building/Training Component: Another critical aspect of the Sembrando Vida project is the focus on capacity building and training for the participants. The recipients will receive training and educational opportunities related to various aspects of agriculture. This knowledge transfer will help them acquire new skills, techniques, and knowledge to improve their farming practices and ensure the long-term sustainability of the project’s impact.

The bi-lateral and technical cooperation between Belize and Mexico in areas of mutual interest, particularly in agriculture, strengthens the ties between the two nations. By fostering collaboration and sharing expertise, both countries can leverage each other’s strengths and experiences to create a more robust agricultural sector and boost socio-economic development in the region.

Bio-fertilizer Demonstration Training

A bio-fertilizer demonstration training was held for farmers of Trinidad and San Lazaro through the project Sembrando Vida. The training is an essential step in promoting sustainable agriculture and supporting farmers in the Trinidad and San Lazaro area of the Orange Walk District. By providing farmers with the necessary knowledge and resources, this outreach program can have a positive impact on agricultural practices in the region.

The distribution of packages to farmers indicates that the program aim is for farmers to effectively learn and implement the techniques for preparing bio-fertilizer. This session will ensure that farmers understand the process thoroughly and use this method to enhance soil fertility and plant health while reducing the reliance on synthetic fertilizers, which can be harmful to the environment. By teaching farmers how to create their own bio-fertilizers, the program empowers them to become self-sufficient and adopt more sustainable agricultural practices in the long run. May be an image of 8 people May be an image of 12 people

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Belize Agriculture and Health Authority conducted proper Field and Packing Shed Inspections

With proper inspections and collaboration, Belize’s papaya industry has the potential to regain its former status as a significant player in the global papaya market. Personnel from the Belize Agriculture and Health Authority conducted a proper field and packing shed inspections at Golden Produce Company Limited in Indian Creek, Orange Walk.

The team was composed by the Managing Director of the Belize Agriculture Health Authority, Mrs. Zoe Zetina, accompanied by the Deputy Director of Plant Health at BAHA, Mr. Kenrick Witty, and Chairman of the Board of Director, Hugh O’Brien.

In 2023, Belize is expected to record at least a 25% increase in papaya exports, and in 2024, production is expected to double. In the early 2000, export of papayas from Belize surpassed $40 million, and with the withdrawal of J.R. Brooks and Fruta Bomba from Corozal and Belize in 2016, papaya exports have dwindled to a trickle.

BAHA personnel are required to inspect the preparation, treatment and packaging of papayas for export to the US, and it was good to know that the two (2) BAHA technicians who inspect the operations and Golden Produce Company have an excellent working relationship.

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Signing of Memorandum of Understanding

To combat the threat posed by Fusarium wilt Tropical Race 4 on banana and plantain crops and other diseases in Belize, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed today in Belmopan with the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise (MAFSE), the International Regional Organization for Health in Agriculture (OIRSA), the Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA), the University of Belize (UB), the Banana Growers Association (BGA), and the Republic of China Taiwan ICDF, in the following key areas:

Development of Tissue Culture Technology: The University of Belize laboratory will receive assistance to develop tissue culture technology for propagating disease-resistant varieties of bananas and plantains. This technology will enable the mass production of disease-resistant plantlets, helping to replace infected plants and minimize the spread of Foc TR4.

Expansion of Satellite Surveillance Program: The Banana Growers Association (BGA) will be supported in enhancing their Satellite Surveillance Program. Utilizing satellite imagery, this program will monitor banana plantations, allowing for early detection of any discolorations or changes that may indicate the presence of the disease. Early warning systems will be essential for prompt action to prevent or control the spread of Foc TR4.

State-of-the-Art Laboratory Equipment Donation: The Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA) will receive a donation of state-of-the-art laboratory equipment to strengthen their capacity for early disease diagnosis within the Musaceae family, including bananas and plantains. This will enable field-level sample processing and swift and accurate disease identification, allowing for timely intervention.

Apart from addressing Fusarium wilt TR4, an addendum to the Belize Livestock Registry – Trazar-Agro MOU has also been signed, extending its life, and adding more activities. The addendum includes the traceability of Sheep and Goats, Honey, Swine, and Poultry, in addition to the existing activities. The traceability platform, under the ownership of the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security, and Enterprise (MAFSE) and supported by the Inter-American Organization for Agricultural Health (OIRSA), facilitates monitoring the national herd, flock, or stock of products, aiding in decision-making, disease control, management, and trade facilitation with other countries.

Additionally, an MOU for non-intrusive quarantine inspection services at the Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (PGIA) has been signed, with an Addendum further strengthening the quarantine inspection process. This involves using X-Ray machines at the arrival lounge to detect and prevent the introduction of pests and risky agricultural products like vegetables, meat, and meat products. The introduction of a maintenance fee for this service aims to ensure its financial sustainability and enhance Belize Agricultural Health Authority’s (BAHA) capability to detect unwanted goods that could pose risks to the agricultural sector.

The participation of various organizations, including the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security, and Enterprise, BAHA, OIRSA, UB, the BGA, and the Republic of China Taiwan ICDF,

indicates a coordinated and well-supported effort to protect Belize’s agricultural sector from potential disease incursions.

Agro-processing Training for Farmers involve in the School Feeding Program

A training session was conducted in Central Farm for 20 female farmers from the Corozal District on the production of salsa casera, pickled products, and fruit jams.

The training, facilitated by the Agro-Processing Unit, aimed to support and strengthen value adding of local products produced by farmers.

By learning how to make these products, farmers can diversify their income sources and reduce their dependence on external markets.

Additionally, it encouraged self-sufficiency in food production and increase in food security and resilience promoting sustainable agricultural practices and empowering local farmers.

International Forum for Technological Dissemination of Soursop

An opening ceremony was held for the International Forum for Technological Dissemination of Soursop. The event was organized by the Southeast Regional Research Center of the National Institute of Forestry, Agriculture, and Livestock Research (INIFAP) México and the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise.

The National Institute of Forestry, Agriculture, and Livestock Research is a research institution in Mexico that plays a crucial role in strengthening production capacity, not only within Mexico but also in collaboration with other countries, including Belize.

Through a bilateral agreement INIFAP have been assisting Technical Officers and farmers in Belize with technical assistance and knowledge transfer to farmers, agricultural organizations, and government agencies in the management of coconut, Soursop, pitahaya and Soybeans.

Through the collaboration the institute have shared best practices, conducted training programs, and provided recommendations on crop selection, cultivation techniques, pest management, and other aspects of agriculture. Other collaboration included research institutions in Belize to undertake joint research projects aimed at improving agricultural productivity and addressing common challenges faced by farmers. This collaboration involved sharing research findings, exchanging experts, and conducting collaborative studies on crop improvement, soil management, irrigation techniques, and other relevant areas like Exchange Programs between farmers, researchers, and technicians from Mexico and Belize.

These programs provide opportunities for individuals to learn from each other’s experiences, observe different agricultural systems, and promote cultural exchange. Such exchanges foster mutual understanding and strengthen the cooperation between the two countries.

Present at the event was the Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Jose Mai, Chief Agriculture Officer Dr. Victoriano Pascual, Dr. Alejandro Cano Lead Technical Officer for INIFAP, Chief of Mission within the Mexican Embassy Mr. Vladimir Hernandez, Farmers, Technical Officers from the Ministry of Agriculture, BMDC, CARDI and other invited guests.

Cold Storage and Contract Farming Training

A two-day training session was conducted for the Orange Walk and Corozal District beneficiaries of the Cold Storage projects sponsored by JICA. The purpose of the training aimed to empower the beneficiaries with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage cold storage units and engage in contract farming, by strengthening the school feeding program’s ability to provide consistent, high-quality meals to students in the Orange Walk and Corozal Districts.

During the training, participants were educated on the various aspects of cold storage management. This included understanding the optimal temperature and humidity levels required to preserve different types of crops, learning about proper storage techniques to prevent spoilage and maintain freshness, and implementing effective inventory management practices to stock and minimize wastage.

The training covered topics such as handling and transportation of goods, maintenance of cold storage equipment, and safety protocols.

In addition, the training session highlighted the importance of contract farming in supporting the school feeding program. Contract farming involves agreements between farmers and buyers, to produce specific crops or products according to quality and quantity standards. By engaging in contract farming, the school feeding program can secure a stable supply of fresh and nutritious food items, allowing for better planning and ensuring the availability of meals for the students.

Food System Transformation Pathway in Belize Stakeholder Consultation Meeting

To ensure the effectiveness and relevance of the Food System Transformation Pathway in Belize, a stakeholder consultation meeting was held at the Ministry of Agriculture Conference Room in Belmopan. The meeting aimed to bring together key government Ministries, civil society organizations, and other relevant stakeholders.

The objective of the meeting was to align efforts, revise the draft pathway, and gather valuable input from diverse perspectives.

During the consultation, participants had the opportunity to review and provide feedback on the proposed actions and interventions. Insights, experiences, and recommendations was provided to enhance the pathway’s effectiveness and address any potential gaps or challenges.

Based on the findings of the Food System Profile, a draft pathway for the food system transformation in Belize was developed. This pathway outlined a series of actions and interventions that would contribute to achieving a more sustainable, resilient, and equitable food system in the country.

The Belize Food System was developed through collaboration between the Government of Belize, FAO, the European Union, and CIRAD.