Hon. Roland Royer, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy addresses handover of agricultural materials at One Mile Portsmouth on Monday
The Government of Dominica on Monday received equipment and materials from the People’s Republic of China valued at $750 000. 00 to assist in the modernization of the island’s agricultural sector.
The presentation was made to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy at the One Mile Agricultural Station in Portsmouth as part of the 8th Phase of the Joint Cooperation Project on Agriculture.
“The equipment and tools which we officially receive today include two hydroponics demonstration systems which complement government efforts in the modernization of the agricultural production systems as we work to meet the growing demand for fresh vegetables on the island,” said Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy Hon. Roland Royer.
“We believe that investments in sheltered and smart agriculture production systems will enable us to adapt to the impacts of climate change and create more opportunities to meet the growing demands for key commodities and also contribute to food security,” he added.
The supplies also include materials required for the maintenance of greenhouses and drip irrigation systems; agricultural tools, seeds and seedling trays used for continuous seedling breeding; and agricultural machinery such as tractors and accessories.
Prime Minister Hon. Roosevelt Skerrit said the contribution was another indication of the strength of Dominica-China bilateral relations.
“There is no doubt that the relationship between Dominica and China has resulted in tremendous positive benefits to the people of Dominica in every sphere of our development. The Chinese technologies that we have witnessed here and that we have seen transferred to the farmers have certainly contributed to our food security. As the years go by we are strengthening that partnership and collaboration to ensure that we continue to assist the farming community,” the Prime Minister said.
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit thanks China for its long-standing support of Dominica
Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Dominica H.E Lin Xianjiang told the handover ceremony China will continue to collaborate with the Government and people of Dominica to advance the agriculture sector.
“This development promises increased production of leafy vegetables, like lettuce, celery, cabbage alongside tomatoes, bell peppers, cantaloupe and other fruits crops. I look forward to the positive impact the increased production will have on the community,” he noted.
The supplies will facilitate experiments and demonstrations of new crop varieties and technologies, the propagation of high-quality seedlings, technical extension and training, and agricultural machinery services resulting in increased productivity within Dominica’s agriculture sector.
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit views hydroponic system at One Mile Agricultural Station
