fintech and property vs husbandry
Fintech and property overshadow husbandry, which holds promise for job creation. International Nosh Day on October 16 is an opportunity to reflect on the industry’s successes and challenges.
support for small farmers
Fintech and property overshadow husbandry, which holds promise for job creation. International Nosh Day on October 16 is an opportunity to reflect on the industry’s successes and challenges.
Advancements in Husbandry Showcase
The Ministry of Farming Industry organizes a husbandry exhibit at Domaine-Les-Pailles during the International Meal Day fests. They showcase the latest advancements in husbandry, tools, shops, and government services. The theme is focused on improving migration prospects, supporting food security, and rural development. Coinciding with Mauritius’ fiftieth year of autonomy, small-scale expositions will educate the public on the importance of the industry.
Challenges in Domestic Food Production
Only 25 food items are produced domestically, with imports exceeding Rs 30 billion. The Smart Farming concept is not widespread, but some big companies are engaged in large-scale organic farming, says the Ministry.The husbandry sector is experiencing a downturn, with sucrose yields shrinking consistently. Other sectors are not much better, except for onions and potatoes. There is a lack of interest from young people and reluctance from experienced farmers to adopt new technology.
Labor Shortages and Productivity
Growers struggle with labor shortages, impacting agricultural productivity. Unlike industries that can hire overseas workers, growers face difficulty in finding labor. Utilizing foreign workers in agriculture can enhance yield and open up new opportunities for growth.
Land Availability and Affordability
The thriving land enterprise has made agrarian land increasingly unaffordable for individuals, hindering those looking to become agrarian entrepreneurs from acquiring suitable land. Neglected land remains unused due to high prices caused by the development of the real estate sector. The demand for land suitable for development is rising, impacting the availability of agrarian land. Some individuals with agrarian land are unable to utilize it for farming due to surrounding urban growth.
Technological Challenges
Growers lack tech access and imported high-quality machinery, leading to reliance on Handbasket impunity. Limited training means growers may not be up-to-date with technology trends.
Water Scarcity and Vegetable Theft
Water scarcity causes agronomists in the North to leave civilization. Boosted domestic growth leads to lower water usage, criticizing the agronomists. Not everyone can access alternate solutions like drilling. There is a rising problem of vegetable theft among farmers due to the lack of regulations in the vegetable trade.
Competition with Imported Goods
Local entrepreneurs face challenges competing with imported goods, especially in the market for colorful products like fresh milk. Strict quality standards inflate costs for locally made food, discouraging investment and hindering business growth.
