SUSTAINABLE AGRICUTURE AT SONGHAI FARM, BENIN

Government is committed to encourage the practice of organic farming among other methods of agricultural production with modern and intelligent techniques hence reducing the use of pesticides and other chemical inputs for a healthier nation.

The Minister of Agro-Industry and Food Security, Mr Mahen Kumar Seeruttun, made this statement yesterday during the opening of a workshop on Organic Farming based on the Songhai Model organised by the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security in collaboration with the Songhai Center at the Holiday Inn Hotel, Plaine Magnien.

Minister Seeruttun dwelt on the importance of the workshop which is being held at an opportune time when Government is working towards finalising the Pesticides Use Bill, before its presentation into the National Assembly. He recalled the set objectives of his Ministry to ensure healthier and safer agricultural products to the population in addition to making the agricultural sector more resilient to the effects of climate change.

He also spoke of the various incentives to encourage youth to seize opportunities in the agricultural sector which he said will help address the shortcomings in this sector which in turn will contribute towards ensuring food security to all. On this score, he recalled the inauguration of the Young Entrepreneurs Sheltered Farming Park project for young graduates which he said will be replicated in other parts of the country.

The Agro Industry Minister also called for a concerted effort of the private sector to make of the agricultural sector more modern, productive, profitable, respectful of nature and above all, healthier to the population. He concluded by expressing confidence that with the collaboration of the Songhai Center, Mauritius will become a model in the Indian Ocean region with regards to organic farming.
The workshop was being held in presence of Father Godfrey Nzamujo as resource person. Father Godfrey Nzamujo is the founder and director of the Songhai Centre, a pioneering farm, training and research centre in Porto Novo, Benin. The latter is in Mauritius to share his know-how and his experience in the field of organic agriculture and entrepreneurship and also help Mauritius pave the way to be competitive and profitable in today's world, while respecting the environment and adapting to climate change.