In a resounding achievement resulting from a collaborative effort between the Taiwan Technical Mission and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security, and Rural Development, over 70 participants commemorated the successful completion of comprehensive training on inefficient production methods and sustainable farming techniques, heralding a promising and transformative future in the agricultural sector.

In a significant milestone for agricultural development, a graduation ceremony was held to commemorate the successful completion of good agricultural practices training for more than 70 participants in regions 4 and 5. The training, held as part of the second phase of the Enhancement of the Efficiency of the Production-Distribution Supply Chain in the Fruits and Vegetables Sector project, known as the Seven Crops Project, highlighted the collaboration of the Taiwan Technical Mission and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security, and Rural Development.

Soil management, pest control, irrigation techniques, post-harvest handling, and marketing strategies were among the topics covered in the training program as participants gained valuable insights into efficient production methods and sustainable farming techniques that ensure consumers receive high-quality fruits and vegetables.

H.E. Peter Chia-yen Chen, Ambassador of the Republic of China, Taiwan, commended the participants for their remarkable achievements and emphasised the importance of the bilateral collaboration between Taiwan and Saint Lucia in promoting agricultural development.

“I would also like to express my appreciation to the Ministry of Agriculture and Taiwan Technical Mission for their hard work in organizing the workshop. The government of Taiwan will continue to work with the government of Saint Lucia to promote local purchase, diversification, and increases In domestic production, which comprises of the goals of our project to promote food security.”

Agriculture Minister Hon. Alfred Prospere, stated that the joint initiative between the Taiwan Technical Mission and the agriculture ministry plays a critical role in improving agricultural practices in our country. According to Minister Prospere, the knowledge gained through the training program will increase productivity, improve product quality, and ultimately lead to better livelihoods for our farmers.

“This training is in keeping with the new thrust of the ministry that is th overarching goal of ensuring both food security and nutrition. Therefore your added collective contributions are essential for improving the food security status of our nation. We rely on our farmers to perform that critical role of food production. The ministry’s mandate in light of current world affairs is of high priority since several factors such as inflation, the corresponding supply chain disruptions and escalating prices of inputs all have driven the cost of food and general living expenses.”

The completion of the training program, marked by an atmosphere of celebration and the presentation of certificates, sets the stage for a promising future in agriculture, strengthening the Ministry’s steadfast dedication to fostering a resilient and sustainable industry of growth and innovation.