Eighteen farmers in the Nickerie district have successfully completed an intensive training in Good Agricultural Practices (GAP). The training was provided by experts from the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries (LVV) and took place at the FAI premises, as part of the Farmer Field School activities.
This training is part of the Minor Fruits Project for Markoesa cultivation, which is implemented within the SU-L1020 IDB program of the Ministry of LVV. Participants were educated in various essential aspects of sustainable agriculture, including crop protection, safe and responsible use of pesticides, hygiene around harvest, and post-harvest techniques such as correct storage and transport. There was also a strong focus on the importance of accurate registration of all agricultural activities.
The sessions were characterized by a high level of interaction. Farmers actively participated in group assignments and shared experiences with the trainers. This practice-oriented approach stimulated knowledge exchange and increased the awareness of food safety among the participants.
The farmers expressed their appreciation for the support of the ministry. They indicated that the knowledge gained enables them to grow markoesa in a safer and more sustainable way. In addition, the application of GAP contributes to meeting international food safety standards, which promotes access to foreign markets.
With this training, the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality is once again taking an important step in strengthening the agricultural sector in Suriname and increasing the competitiveness of local farmers on the international market.
Original article sourced from Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Fisheries, Suriname