Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Alfred Prospere recently engaged with farmers in Grace Vieux Fort to address concerns, provide updates on the agriculture sector, and emphasize the need for preventative measures against the Tropical Race 4 (TR4) disease affecting banana plants.

In a proactive move to understand the issues faced by farmers and keep them informed about the latest developments in the agriculture sector, the Minister of Agriculture held a meeting with farmers in Grace Vieux Fort. The meeting aimed to foster an open dialogue, allowing farmers to express their concerns and challenges while providing them with important updates.

The gathering, was attended by a diverse group of farmers representing various agricultural sectors, who were provided with the opportunity to express their concerns and share the challenges they encounter on a daily basis. Agriculture Minister, Hon. Alfred Prospere, highlighted key topics discussed during the meeting, including access to markets, farm labor, and the availability of affordable agricultural inputs.

“They also raised concerns of diversification and the need for our farmers to be more engaged and that was very much welcomed because this is the direction that the ministry is going.”

The Minister provided a comprehensive update on the current status of the agriculture sector, highlighting the concerning presence of the Tropical Race 4 (TR4) disease that affects banana plants. He emphasized the urgent need for farmers to take all necessary measures to prevent the entry and spread of the Tropical Race 4 (TR4) disease urging farmers to adhere to strict biosecurity protocols and practice vigilant monitoring to safeguard the banana industry from the detrimental effects of TR4. The Minister stressed the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining a resilient and disease-free agricultural sector.

The engagement between the Minister of Agriculture and farmers in Grace Vieux Fort reflects the government’s dedication to ensuring the welfare and success of the agricultural community. By actively involving farmers in policy discussions and keeping them informed about sector developments, the government aims to foster an environment of collaboration and support for sustainable agricultural practices.