A colloquium in the evolution of agriculture in Mauritius took place this week at the Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre in Bell Village. The Minister of Agro-Industry and Food Security, Mr Mahen Seeruttun, attended the event. The Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security organized the colloquium as part of the World Food Day 2017 celebrations.
The themes discussed during the colloquium included the role of the Faculty of Agriculture in meeting the needs of the agricultural sector, research and development on sugarcane for a sustainable industry, the regional food security and nutrition program for 2017-2022, and the challenges and opportunities of the Mauritian Cane Industry.
Minister Seeruttun highlighted the significant role that the sugarcane crop has played in the Mauritian economy since its introduction by the Dutch in the seventeenth century. The government has been making continuous efforts to improve and maintain the economic viability of the sugarcane industry. The goal is to produce at least 400,000 tons of sugar annually. Additionally, the sugarcane industry contributes to the country’s economy through the production of bagasse and ethanol, which are used in the energy and environmental sectors.
The government is also encouraging planters to adopt organic farming practices to reduce reliance on chemical inputs and improve the quality of local food production. Minister Seeruttun emphasized the harmful impacts of increased pesticide and insecticide use on human health and the environment. To support this transition, the government provides incentives for organic farming.
Overall, the colloquium provided a platform to discuss the evolution of agriculture in Mauritius, with a focus on sugarcane and organic farming. It highlighted the government’s efforts to ensure the sustainability and economic viability of the agricultural sector in the country.
Source: A colloquium on evolution of agriculture in Mauritius – https://defimedia.info/colloquium-evolution-agriculture-mauritius
