Turks and Caicos, May 4, 2017 – Providenciales – Farmers and persons involved in the agriculture sector have recently been gaining new opportunities. Improvements for farmer activities, an upgraded Heath Information System for TCI and additional staffing are some of the milestones that the Ministry of Health, Agriculture and Human Services have listed as having achieved since sworn in under the new government.
In January, Magnetic Media reported the visit of Mr. Daniel Doane, a technical advisor with PAHO. The purpose of his visit was to assess the current TCI Health Information System in preparation of establishing an electronic Health Information System catered for the TCI.
In February, The Ministry of Health also filled two new technical positions in agriculture. Mario Smith was sworn in as an Extension Officer and Eulitt Pinnock was awarded the title of Farm Manager. Both men are said to have come with a lot of experience in Agriculture.
In March, the department of Agriculture held a free Organic Pesticide workshop in Providenciales and North Caicos where farmers, and businesses owners alike were able to learn about natural ways to fight pests.
In April, The Ministry also conducted a farmer survey geared to knowing what Agriculture activities exist and how they can be improved. The initiative was said to help the ministry work with farmers first hand and put things in place to improve on agricultural practices and production.
Director of Agriculture, Ms. Wilhelmina Kissoonsingh has stated, “The Turks and Caicos Islands imports almost all its food, which puts the country at a food security risk. However the potential is there to develop the agriculture sector with new and innovative techniques to produce food in a sustainable way.”
Story By: Kay-Marie Fletcher
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