Tick Bornes Diseases

 

As human and commercial traffic intensifies, we are inadvertently facilitating the spread of diseases and parasites that threaten the very stability of regional agriculture. Organizations like CIRAD and the ASTRE (Animal, Santé, Territoires, Risques et Écosystèmes) research unit are monitoring, detecting, and preventing animal diseases, especially those that can: Spread across borders, Affect food production and livelihoods and Pose risks to human health. In her talk Dr M.Dupraz gave an over of the current tick borne diseases in the region.

1. A 19th-Century Legacy of Uninvited Guests

The tick crisis in the Indian Ocean is not a modern phenomenon but a persistent biological debt incurred during the height of colonial commerce. These parasites were originally introduced alongside ruminant imports from East and South Africa during the 19th century, with subsequent introductions arriving from Asia. This historical context reveals a profound irony: the same trade routes that built the region’s modern economy also imported a permanent ecological challenge.

"Dynamic region: high human and commercial traffic... Ticks imported with their ruminant hosts from East and South Africa in the 19th century, then from Asia."

This legacy reminds us that human "progress" often carries unintended biological baggage. By moving animals across oceans without modern biosecurity, we created a permanent shift in the regional ecosystem that farmers are still paying for over a century later.

2. Beyond the Bite: The Massive Economic Toll

A tick infestation is far more than a simple veterinary nuisance; it is a systemic drain on the region's prosperity. The damage is felt in two distinct waves that compromise both animal welfare and provincial food security.

Direct Impacts on Animal Health

• Massive Blood Loss: Severe infestations lead to debilitating anemia and physical exhaustion.
• Physical Trauma: Ticks cause painful abscesses and opportunistic skin diseases at the site of attachment.

Indirect Impacts and Economic Destabilization

• Pathogen Transmission: Ticks serve as high-speed vectors for lethal bacteria and protozoa.
• Production Decline: There is a sharp drop in growth rates and milk yields, directly threatening the food security of island populations.
• Rising Costs: Smallholders face a mounting financial burden from veterinary fees and the purchasing of acaricides like Butox, often with diminishing returns.

3. A Rogues' Gallery of Deadly Pathogens

 

The ticks of the Indian Ocean are efficient biological delivery systems. Understanding the specific pathogens they carry is vital for "One Health" monitoring, as the windows for intervention are often incredibly narrow. The speed of mortality—sometimes as little as 24 hours after symptoms appear—makes these "tiny travelers" some of the most dangerous inhabitants of the islands.

Tick Species	Pathogen & Disease	Symptoms & Incubation	Treatment Outlook
Amblyomma variegatum	Ehrlichia ruminantium (Cowdriosis)	Sudden fever, nervous symptoms (stiffness, trembling). Incubation: 2–3 weeks.	Mortality in 1–6 days; requires urgent Tetracycline injection.
Rhipicephalus microplus	Babesia bovis/bigemina (Babesiosis) & Anaplasma marginale (Anaplasmosis)	High fever, jaundice, dark urine, anemia. Incubation: 1–4 weeks.	Treated with Imidocarb or Oxytetracycline; vaccines available.
Rhipicephalus evertsi	Nairobi sheep virus & Theileria parva (Theileriosis)	Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, abortion, fever, lethargy. Incubation: 2–21 days.	Nairobi virus: No specific treatment. Theileriosis: Buparvaquone/Oxytetracycline.

4. The "Super-Tick" and the Failure of Chemical Warfare

For decades, the "Lutte chimique" (chemical control) has been the frontline defense. However, we have reached a dangerous tipping point. The species Rhipicephalus microplus has evolved into a "super-tick," showing widespread acaricide resistance. This crisis is exacerbated by a diminishing number of available active ingredients; as the molecules themselves become obsolete, the chemical "arms race" is being lost.

Currently, while products like Butox remain in use, the source context reveals a management void: Lutte génétique (genetic control) is currently "non appliquée" (not applied), and authorized vaccines are frequently unavailable. This over-reliance on a single, failing solution has only made the pests stronger. To combat this, we must pivot toward "Integrated Management." This includes difficult but necessary agronomic shifts such as:

• Gyrobroyage: Mechanical brush clearing to destroy tick habitats.
• Movement Monitoring: Strict tracking of animal transit to isolate infested zones.
• Targeted Treatments: Moving away from blanket spraying toward strategic, data-driven applications.

Conclusion: The Road Toward Integrated Resilience

The future of the region depends on moving beyond the sprayer. Under the umbrella of the "One Health OI" partnership, researchers like Marlène Dupraz are developing a multi-pillar approach to resilience. By combining the inventory and mapping of species with molecular diagnosis and risk assessment, the goal is to create "Integrated control plans" that respect the link between the animal, the environment, and the human economy.

As we continue to enjoy the benefits of global connectivity, we must confront a difficult question: how can we balance the high-speed demands of international trade with the absolute necessity of local biological security?

Production Agricole et L'Alimentation a Ile Maurice

Daneshwar Puchooa, Doyen de la faculté d’agriculture de l’UoM : «Notre culture alimentaire doit changer»

 

En votre qualité de doyen de la faculté d’agriculture de l’Université de Maurice (UoM), quelle est, selon vous, la principale source d’inquiétude dans le secteur de l’alimentation ?
 
Il y a de la part des Mauriciens une prise de conscience des effets directs de l’agriculture sur notre alimentation. L’importance accordée à la sécurité alimentaire de nos concitoyens n’a jamais été aussi grande. La production agricole et agro-industrielle est suffisante pour éviter les pénuries. La qualité sanitaire des produits est bonne, grâce aux normes d’hygiène et aux contrôles. L’intensification des méthodes de culture augmente les rendements. Nous pouvons produire suffisamment pour satisfaire les besoins du pays à des prix abordables.

Une source d’inquiétude est l’utilisation abusive d’antibiotiques dans l’élevage d’animaux. La résistance aux antibiotiques est une des menaces les plus répandues à travers le monde. Elle est déjà responsable de près de 700 000 décès par an.


Comment peut-on changer notre modèle d’agriculture ?
La filière des légumes est un maillon important de l’agriculture de Maurice. Environ 85 % de la production locale provient des petits planteurs et les 15 % restants des établissements sucriers et autres gros planteurs. Cela démontre le rôle important des petits producteurs dans l’alimentation de la population.

En identifiant les défis de notre planète, nous constatons aussi que nous sommes confrontés à des enjeux : changement climatique, épuisement des énergies fossiles, vieillissement, inégalités croissantes et déséquilibres socio-économiques, et perte de la biodiversité.

Quels pourraient être les axes de relance dans le secteur ?
Il faudrait mieux valoriser nos produits d’antan. Notre culture alimentaire doit impérativement changer. La pomme de terre, le manioc, le maïs et le fruit à pain doivent devenir des aliments de base. Cela réduirait notre dépendance du riz et de la farine.

Parlons à présent du macadamia. Représente-t-il une bonne alternative pour les planteurs de canne ?
Le macadamia est un arbre qui atteint sa pleine maturité à 12 voire 15 ans. Il mesure alors 15 mètres. Les premières noix sont produites quand l’arbre atteint cinq ou six ans. Mais le rendement demeure relativement faible jusqu’à 10 voire 12 ans. Tout planteur qui souhaiterait se lancer dans cette activité devrait attendre une décennie avant de songer à faire recette. La culture du macadamia devrait se faire sur les terrains abandonnés par les planteurs de canne à sucre.

Dispose-t-on des compétences nécessaires pour ce type de culture ?
Nous avons besoin de spécialistes en la matière : culture, recherche, développement, protection contre les maladies, production de semences de qualité, gestion de pépinières et commercialisation. La sécurité alimentaire ne signifie pas seulement produire ce qui est traditionnellement consommé. Il s’agit aussi d’explorer de nouvelles possibilités qui renforceront les efforts nationaux en matière de sécurité alimentaire.

WORKSHOP ON SKILLS STUDIES SURVEY FOR AGRICULTURAL SECTOR

 
Dear ALL Valued Alumni and Students of the Faculty of Agriculture,

The Human Resource Development Council (HRDC) is pleased to invite you to the presentation of findings of the skills studies survey for the Agriculture sector. The main objective of the Skills Studies 2017 was to assess the country’s skills needs in the short and medium term as well as to highlight issues related to skills development in the Agricultural Sector. This is an important study as it helps to identify areas of growth and needs for the Agricultural Sector.

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Aperçu de la consommation des légumes a Maurice

Une Analyse critique de Mons. Jean Cyril Monty

La consommation locale de légumes frais s’est élevée à 115 000 tonnes en 2016 contre 97,000 tonnes en 2008 (+19 %), ce qui représente une moyenne de 88 kilos par tête d’habitant.

Du volume consommé en 2016, 90 000 tonnes (78 %) sont d’origine locale et les 25,000 tonnes restantes (22 %) proviennent des importations.

La valeur de la production locale des légumes frais, en 2016, est estimée à Rs 2,5 milliards contre Rs 1,8 milliard en 2008 (+39 %).

Tenant compte des différents postes de dépenses et des marges commerciales imposées par les intermédiaires, grossistes, distributeurs et détaillants, il est estimé que les légumes frais, produits localement, ont coûté aux consommateurs locaux la somme astronomique d’environ Rs 4 milliards en 2016 contre Rs 3 milliards dix ans plus tôt (+33 %). Ainsi, chaque Mauricien aura dépensé, en 2016, une moyenne de Rs 3 100 pour son approvisionnement en légumes frais locaux.

Les exportations

Les exportations de légumes frais, en 2016, ont été dérisoires, soit un volume de seulement 60 tonnes, ce qui représente 0,6 % de la production nationale. Il serait utile de faire ressortir qu’entre 2012 et l’année dernière, le volume exporté a chuté de 71 %.

Les légumes transformés

La filière de la production des légumes ne fournit pratiquement pas de matière première à l’industrie de transformation locale, qui n’a d’autre choix que de se tourner vers l’importation pour son approvisionnement.

En 2016, le pays a importé un volume de quelque 31 500 tonnes de légumes transformés, incluant pour les besoins de l’agro-industrie locale. Ce volume représente une hausse de 50 % par rapport aux 21 000 tonnes réceptionnées en 2008.

Ces chiffres font voir que Maurice suit les tendances des pays développés avec une consommation grandissante des produits transformés.

Les producteurs

Il est estimé que 85 % de la production locale proviennent des petits planteurs et les 15 % restants des établissements sucriers et autres gros planteurs. Ceci montre le rôle important que tiennent les petits producteurs pour nourrir la population.

Une filière en détresse

Le bref état des lieux de la filière légumes frais, présenté ci-dessus, démontre, malgré ses nombreuses failles et faiblesses, l’importance stratégique du secteur dans l’économie du pays. Cependant, cette filière fait face depuis trop longtemps à de grosses difficultés qui ne cessent de mettre à mal le fondement même de son existence. Une activité économique, si petite soit-elle, ne peut être maintenue en opération uniquement à travers des compensations et autres mesures cosmétiques d’éclat, alors que les véritables enjeux se situent ailleurs, notamment :
(i) une productivité (rendement par unité de surface) en chute libre depuis maintenant dix ans, passant de 14,9 tonnes/hectare en 2009 à 13,2 tonnes/hectare en 2016.
(ii) un coût de production élevé, affectant ainsi les producteurs et les consommateurs.
(iii) des infestations de maladies et d’insectes de plus en plus sévères, avec de sérieuses répercussions sur les récoltes.
(iv) une activité d’exportation au plus bas en raison du manque de compétitivité, des problèmes phytosanitaires ainsi que de la qualité des produits.
(v) le changement climatique et le manque d’eau pour l’irrigation qui affectent les cultures.
(vi) l’incapacité de produire pour l’industrie de la transformation.
(vii) l’absence d’une politique claire et définie des bonnes pratiques culturales.
(viii) une main-d’oeuvre en baisse et vieillissante.
(ix) la définition des zones appropriées de production pour les différents types de cultures.

Des mesures budgétaires en déphasage avec les réalités locales

Le secteur agricole non-sucre, et celui de la filière des légumes frais en particulier, souffre d’une très mauvaise approche de la part du gouvernement.

La première présentation du budget de l’alliance Lepep, en 2015, suivi de celui du 8 juin 2017, sont venus démontrer comment nos décideurs du jour ont une vision du secteur non-sucre qui est en déphasage avec les réalités locales. Si rien n’est fait pour rectifier le tir, la production de légumes continuera à péricliter dans le court à moyen terme avec des retombées catastrophiques pour le pays en général et les planteurs et consommateurs en particulier.

Encourager les planteurs, notamment ceux qui le souhaitent, à se lancer dans la production bio aurait été une décision judicieuse. Cependant, fixer un objectif de 50% de notre production locale en légumes bio d’ici cinq ans, est une décision suicidaire et irresponsable, prise à la va vite et sans aucune étude approfondie sur la question, mesure boudée, avec raison, par la majorité des planteurs. Aucun pays au monde, même parmi les champions du bio, n’osera jamais imaginer un seul instant fixer un tel seuil de production car les implications sont énormes et bien souvent irréversibles.

Et comme si l’idée de se concentrer sur le bio ne suffisait pas, voilà que dans la présentation du budget 2017/2018, une mesure étonne et laisse bouche bée. Il s’agit de la production de noix de macadamia. Alors là, chapeau à celui ou à ceux qui ont pu convaincre le ministre des Finances qu’il y a là un gros potentiel que le pays doit exploiter.

Pour ceux qui l’ignorent, le macadamia est un arbre qui atteint sa pleine maturité à l’âge de 12-15 ans, mesurant alors un minimum de 15 mètres de haut. Les premières noix sont produites quand l’arbre atteint l’âge de 5-6 ans, mais le rendement demeure relativement faible jusqu’à 10-12 ans environ. Ainsi, tout planteur qui souhaiterait se lancer dans cette activité devra prendre son mal en patience et attendre au minimum une décennie, si entre-temps la plantation n’est pas décimée par les cyclones (le macadamia est très sensible aux vents forts et à une forte humidité), pour espérer rentrer dans ses frais.

Comme les terres agricoles sont aujourd’hui une denrée très rare chez nous, il en découle que toute plantation de macadamia ne pourra se faire qu’au détriment d’une culture existante ou d’une activité qui nécessite de grandes superficies.

Par ailleurs, ce ne sont certainement pas l’interdiction d’importer ou l’introduction d’une taxe de 15% sur certains pesticides qui vont régler les problèmes de résidus dans les légumes qui, soit dit en passant, ne sont pas aussi alarmants qu’on ne le pense mais nécessitent néanmoins des mesures plus terre à terre et non punitives pour être réglés.

Le véritable enjeu : répondre de façon dynamique aux aléas du marché

La filière des légumes frais est à la croisée des chemins et nécessite une refonte en profondeur, une mise à niveau qui permettra alors aux producteurs de répondre de manière positive et soutenue aux attentes des consommateurs. Redresser et revaloriser le secteur primaire afin qu’il puisse continuer à remplir sa mission qui est de nourrir la population, voilà où se situe le véritable enjeu. Définir de nouvelles politiques agricoles qui vont avaler nos maigres ressources financières et humaines disponibles ne fera qu’aggraver une situation déjà aléatoire.

Source: L' Express 21 Jun 2017

Strategic Plan 2016-2020 for the Food Crop, Livestock and Forestry sectors

The Strategic Plan 2016-2020 for the Food Crop, Livestock and Forestry sectors, which sets the objectives to improve the level of food security and food safety and promote a more sustainable agriculture in Mauritius has been made public by the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security. 

The Plan has been formulated to take Mauritius to a higher level of food security whilst respecting the need for safe food and better nutrition of the population. It caters for the need for sustainable agricultural development in a climate-friendly mode as well as safeguarding farmers’ livelihoods. 

Its a roadmap for reviving the agricultural sector wherein emphasis is on the preservation of our biodiversity, to ensure the future of the sector with focus on innovation and research as well as increase production in an integrated manner alongside other development projects such as the creation of Smart Cities. 

The Plan covers three main components: economic, environmental, and social. On the economic aspect priority will be on the gradual reduction of our dependence on the importation of agricultural and basic food products. This will create employment and offer additional opportunities for planters to produce more and increase their revenue. 

As regards the environmental aspect, the Minister spoke about the importance of promoting sustainable agriculture with focus on organic food production on the long-term, relying less on pesticides and chemical products. On the social front, the emphasis is on the issue of food security to ensure that there is enough local food production for the population’s consumption. In line with the objective of making Mauritius an agribusiness hub, Mahen Seeruttun announced that the tea sector will be revived as there are potential investors and a growing market globally. On that score a total land area of three hundred acres has been identified for tea cultivation. He also spoke about projects to modernise the agricultural sector which will comprise the construction of a new wholesale market in Wooton with a central market to the tune of Rs 350 million. More about the Strategic Plan The specific objectives are: improve the level of food security in the country; provide safe and quality food for the local population and for export; improve the contribution of agriculture to national economic and social development; promote the sustainable management of land, water and other natural resources; capacity building to enable farmers to face climate change and move on to ‘climate-smart agriculture’; and implement institutional reforms for service delivery and empower farmers towards entrepreneurship and professionalism. The Strategic Plan 2016-2020 for the Food Crop, Livestock and Forestry sectors has been prepared after a wide-ranging dialogue exercise with all stakeholders of the agricultural industry from the public and private sectors. A high level committee has been set up under the chairmanship of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security and will meet regularly to meet objectives set out in the Plan

Source More news on: http://www.orange.mu/kinews/

he Strategic Plan 2016-2020 for the Food Crop, Livestock and Forestry sectors, which sets the objectives to improve the level of food security and food safety and promote a more sustainable agriculture in Mauritius, was presented on Tuesday 11th January in Port Louis. During a press conference the Minister of Agro-Industry and Food Security, Mahen Seeruttun, elaborated on the Plan which will be implemented to the tune of Rs 3 billion over the coming five years. The Plan has been formulated to take Mauritius to a higher level of food security whilst respecting the need for safe food and better nutrition of the population. It caters for the need for sustainable agricultural development in a climate-friendly mode as well as safeguarding farmers’ livelihoods. According to the Minister the Strategic Plan 2016-2020 is the roadmap for reviving the agricultural sector wherein emphasis will be on the preservation of our biodiversity. He underscored the need to ensure the future of the sector with focus on innovation and research as well as increase production in an integrated manner alongside other development projects such as the creation of Smart Cities. Agriculture will have a key role to play and will be an integral part of such projects, he said. The Plan covers three main components: economic, environmental, and social. On the economic aspect priority will be on the gradual reduction of our dependence on the importation of agricultural and basic food products. This will create employment and offer additional opportunities for planters to produce more and increase their revenue. As regards the environmental aspect, the Minister spoke about the importance of promoting sustainable agriculture with focus on organic food production on the long-term, relying less on pesticides and chemical products. On the social front, the emphasis is on the issue of food security to ensure that there is enough local food production for the population’s consumption. In line with the objective of making Mauritius an agribusiness hub, Mahen Seeruttun announced that the tea sector will be revived as there are potential investors and a growing market globally. On that score a total land area of three hundred acres has been identified for tea cultivation. He also spoke about projects to modernise the agricultural sector which will comprise the construction of a new wholesale market in Wooton with a central market to the tune of Rs 350 million. More about the Strategic Plan The specific objectives are: improve the level of food security in the country; provide safe and quality food for the local population and for export; improve the contribution of agriculture to national economic and social development; promote the sustainable management of land, water and other natural resources; capacity building to enable farmers to face climate change and move on to ‘climate-smart agriculture’; and implement institutional reforms for service delivery and empower farmers towards entrepreneurship and professionalism. The Strategic Plan 2016-2020 for the Food Crop, Livestock and Forestry sectors has been prepared after a wide-ranging dialogue exercise with all stakeholders of the agricultural industry from the public and private sectors. A high level committee has been set up under the chairmanship of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security and will meet regularly to meet objectives set out in the Plan

Read more on: http://www.orange.mu/kinews/dossiers/societe/429329/agro-industry-presentation-of-the-non-sugar-sector-strategic-plan-2016-2020.html

More news on: http://www.orange.mu/kinews/

Follow us: @OrangeMauritius on Twitter | Orange on Facebook

he Strategic Plan 2016-2020 for the Food Crop, Livestock and Forestry sectors, which sets the objectives to improve the level of food security and food safety and promote a more sustainable agriculture in Mauritius, was presented on Tuesday 11th January in Port Louis. During a press conference the Minister of Agro-Industry and Food Security, Mahen Seeruttun, elaborated on the Plan which will be implemented to the tune of Rs 3 billion over the coming five years. The Plan has been formulated to take Mauritius to a higher level of food security whilst respecting the need for safe food and better nutrition of the population. It caters for the need for sustainable agricultural development in a climate-friendly mode as well as safeguarding farmers’ livelihoods. According to the Minister the Strategic Plan 2016-2020 is the roadmap for reviving the agricultural sector wherein emphasis will be on the preservation of our biodiversity. He underscored the need to ensure the future of the sector with focus on innovation and research as well as increase production in an integrated manner alongside other development projects such as the creation of Smart Cities. Agriculture will have a key role to play and will be an integral part of such projects, he said. The Plan covers three main components: economic, environmental, and social. On the economic aspect priority will be on the gradual reduction of our dependence on the importation of agricultural and basic food products. This will create employment and offer additional opportunities for planters to produce more and increase their revenue. As regards the environmental aspect, the Minister spoke about the importance of promoting sustainable agriculture with focus on organic food production on the long-term, relying less on pesticides and chemical products. On the social front, the emphasis is on the issue of food security to ensure that there is enough local food production for the population’s consumption. In line with the objective of making Mauritius an agribusiness hub, Mahen Seeruttun announced that the tea sector will be revived as there are potential investors and a growing market globally. On that score a total land area of three hundred acres has been identified for tea cultivation. He also spoke about projects to modernise the agricultural sector which will comprise the construction of a new wholesale market in Wooton with a central market to the tune of Rs 350 million. More about the Strategic Plan The specific objectives are: improve the level of food security in the country; provide safe and quality food for the local population and for export; improve the contribution of agriculture to national economic and social development; promote the sustainable management of land, water and other natural resources; capacity building to enable farmers to face climate change and move on to ‘climate-smart agriculture’; and implement institutional reforms for service delivery and empower farmers towards entrepreneurship and professionalism. The Strategic Plan 2016-2020 for the Food Crop, Livestock and Forestry sectors has been prepared after a wide-ranging dialogue exercise with all stakeholders of the agricultural industry from the public and private sectors. A high level committee has been set up under the chairmanship of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security and will meet regularly to meet objectives set out in the Plan

Read more on: http://www.orange.mu/kinews/dossiers/societe/429329/agro-industry-presentation-of-the-non-sugar-sector-strategic-plan-2016-2020.html

More news on: http://www.orange.mu/kinews/

Follow us: @OrangeMauritius on Twitter | Orange on Facebook

he Strategic Plan 2016-2020 for the Food Crop, Livestock and Forestry sectors, which sets the objectives to improve the level of food security and food safety and promote a more sustainable agriculture in Mauritius, was presented on Tuesday 11th January in Port Louis. During a press conference the Minister of Agro-Industry and Food Security, Mahen Seeruttun, elaborated on the Plan which will be implemented to the tune of Rs 3 billion over the coming five years. The Plan has been formulated to take Mauritius to a higher level of food security whilst respecting the need for safe food and better nutrition of the population. It caters for the need for sustainable agricultural development in a climate-friendly mode as well as safeguarding farmers’ livelihoods. According to the Minister the Strategic Plan 2016-2020 is the roadmap for reviving the agricultural sector wherein emphasis will be on the preservation of our biodiversity. He underscored the need to ensure the future of the sector with focus on innovation and research as well as increase production in an integrated manner alongside other development projects such as the creation of Smart Cities. Agriculture will have a key role to play and will be an integral part of such projects, he said. The Plan covers three main components: economic, environmental, and social. On the economic aspect priority will be on the gradual reduction of our dependence on the importation of agricultural and basic food products. This will create employment and offer additional opportunities for planters to produce more and increase their revenue. As regards the environmental aspect, the Minister spoke about the importance of promoting sustainable agriculture with focus on organic food production on the long-term, relying less on pesticides and chemical products. On the social front, the emphasis is on the issue of food security to ensure that there is enough local food production for the population’s consumption. In line with the objective of making Mauritius an agribusiness hub, Mahen Seeruttun announced that the tea sector will be revived as there are potential investors and a growing market globally. On that score a total land area of three hundred acres has been identified for tea cultivation. He also spoke about projects to modernise the agricultural sector which will comprise the construction of a new wholesale market in Wooton with a central market to the tune of Rs 350 million. More about the Strategic Plan The specific objectives are: improve the level of food security in the country; provide safe and quality food for the local population and for export; improve the contribution of agriculture to national economic and social development; promote the sustainable management of land, water and other natural resources; capacity building to enable farmers to face climate change and move on to ‘climate-smart agriculture’; and implement institutional reforms for service delivery and empower farmers towards entrepreneurship and professionalism. The Strategic Plan 2016-2020 for the Food Crop, Livestock and Forestry sectors has been prepared after a wide-ranging dialogue exercise with all stakeholders of the agricultural industry from the public and private sectors. A high level committee has been set up under the chairmanship of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security and will meet regularly to meet objectives set out in the Plan

Read more on: http://www.orange.mu/kinews/dossiers/societe/429329/agro-industry-presentation-of-the-non-sugar-sector-strategic-plan-2016-2020.html

More news on: http://www.orange.mu/kinews/

Follow us: @OrangeMauritius on Twitter | Orange on Facebook

The Strategic Plan 2016-2020 for the Food Crop, Livestock and Forestry sectors, which sets the objectives to improve the level of food security and food safety and promote a more sustainable agriculture in Mauritius, was presented on Tuesday 11th January in Port Louis. During a press conference the Minister of Agro-Industry and Food Security, Mahen Seeruttun, elaborated on the Plan which will be implemented to the tune of Rs 3 billion over the coming five years. The Plan has been formulated to take Mauritius to a higher level of food security whilst respecting the need for safe food and better nutrition of the population. It caters for the need for sustainable agricultural development in a climate-friendly mode as well as safeguarding farmers’ livelihoods. According to the Minister the Strategic Plan 2016-2020 is the roadmap for reviving the agricultural sector wherein emphasis will be on the preservation of our biodiversity. He underscored the need to ensure the future of the sector with focus on innovation and research as well as increase production in an integrated manner alongside other development projects such as the creation of Smart Cities. Agriculture will have a key role to play and will be an integral part of such projects, he said. The Plan covers three main components: economic, environmental, and social. On the economic aspect priority will be on the gradual reduction of our dependence on the importation of agricultural and basic food products. This will create employment and offer additional opportunities for planters to produce more and increase their revenue. As regards the environmental aspect, the Minister spoke about the importance of promoting sustainable agriculture with focus on organic food production on the long-term, relying less on pesticides and chemical products. On the social front, the emphasis is on the issue of food security to ensure that there is enough local food production for the population’s consumption. In line with the objective of making Mauritius an agribusiness hub, Mahen Seeruttun announced that the tea sector will be revived as there are potential investors and a growing market globally. On that score a total land area of three hundred acres has been identified for tea cultivation. He also spoke about projects to modernise the agricultural sector which will comprise the construction of a new wholesale market in Wooton with a central market to the tune of Rs 350 million. More about the Strategic Plan The specific objectives are: improve the level of food security in the country; provide safe and quality food for the local population and for export; improve the contribution of agriculture to national economic and social development; promote the sustainable management of land, water and other natural resources; capacity building to enable farmers to face climate change and move on to ‘climate-smart agriculture’; and implement institutional reforms for service delivery and empower farmers towards entrepreneurship and professionalism. The Strategic Plan 2016-2020 for the Food Crop, Livestock and Forestry sectors has been prepared after a wide-ranging dialogue exercise with all stakeholders of the agricultural industry from the public and private sectors. A high level committee has been set up under the chairmanship of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security and will meet regularly to meet objectives set out in the Plan.

Read more on: http://www.orange.mu/kinews/dossiers/societe/429329/agro-industry-presentation-of-the-non-sugar-sector-strategic-plan-2016-2020.html

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The Strategic Plan 2016-2020 for the Food Crop, Livestock and Forestry sectors, which sets the objectives to improve the level of food security and food safety and promote a more sustainable agriculture in Mauritius, was presented on Tuesday 11th January in Port Louis. During a press conference the Minister of Agro-Industry and Food Security, Mahen Seeruttun, elaborated on the Plan which will be implemented to the tune of Rs 3 billion over the coming five years. The Plan has been formulated to take Mauritius to a higher level of food security whilst respecting the need for safe food and better nutrition of the population. It caters for the need for sustainable agricultural development in a climate-friendly mode as well as safeguarding farmers’ livelihoods. According to the Minister the Strategic Plan 2016-2020 is the roadmap for reviving the agricultural sector wherein emphasis will be on the preservation of our biodiversity. He underscored the need to ensure the future of the sector with focus on innovation and research as well as increase production in an integrated manner alongside other development projects such as the creation of Smart Cities. Agriculture will have a key role to play and will be an integral part of such projects, he said. The Plan covers three main components: economic, environmental, and social. On the economic aspect priority will be on the gradual reduction of our dependence on the importation of agricultural and basic food products. This will create employment and offer additional opportunities for planters to produce more and increase their revenue. As regards the environmental aspect, the Minister spoke about the importance of promoting sustainable agriculture with focus on organic food production on the long-term, relying less on pesticides and chemical products. On the social front, the emphasis is on the issue of food security to ensure that there is enough local food production for the population’s consumption. In line with the objective of making Mauritius an agribusiness hub, Mahen Seeruttun announced that the tea sector will be revived as there are potential investors and a growing market globally. On that score a total land area of three hundred acres has been identified for tea cultivation. He also spoke about projects to modernise the agricultural sector which will comprise the construction of a new wholesale market in Wooton with a central market to the tune of Rs 350 million. More about the Strategic Plan The specific objectives are: improve the level of food security in the country; provide safe and quality food for the local population and for export; improve the contribution of agriculture to national economic and social development; promote the sustainable management of land, water and other natural resources; capacity building to enable farmers to face climate change and move on to ‘climate-smart agriculture’; and implement institutional reforms for service delivery and empower farmers towards entrepreneurship and professionalism. The Strategic Plan 2016-2020 for the Food Crop, Livestock and Forestry sectors has been prepared after a wide-ranging dialogue exercise with all stakeholders of the agricultural industry from the public and private sectors. A high level committee has been set up under the chairmanship of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security and will meet regularly to meet objectives set out in the Plan.

Read more on: http://www.orange.mu/kinews/dossiers/societe/429329/agro-industry-presentation-of-the-non-sugar-sector-strategic-plan-2016-2020.html

More news on: http://www.orange.mu/kinews/

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CTA - Working Session on Climate Change Solutions that Work

Working session 

“Climate Change Solutions that Work”

In development and policy discussions at different levels, there is a general agreement that the adverse impacts of climate change on agriculture especially for smallholder producers in ACP region is high and, and urgent actions are required to assist farmers.

In the quest to identify and promote practical solutions that work for the smallholder farmers and their families, the Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation (CTA) initiated a project to document existing practices, tools and policies that have helped farmers to continue to produce food in the face of changing climate, understand the impacts of such solutions, identify partners and types of partnerships to scale-up the most promising practices.

CTA organised a working session in its premises from 5 to 7 August 2015, entitled "Climate Change Solutions that Work for farmers". The workshop was attended by several scientists from the African continent to share their experiences and lessons on workable, relevant and practical climate change for farmers in order to scaling up the most promising/proven cases in Africa, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries.

Dr B.Lalljee from the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Mauritius attended the workshop and shared their findings of the research work on Agricultural Insurance as a Tool for Adaptation to Climate Change in Mauritius.

Among other objectives, the session aims to:

• Present progress of each case study and adopt a common format for preparing final documentation of individual reports.
• Peer-review each case study, conduct rigorous examination of its practical relevance as solutions to climate change for smallholder farmers.
• Identify drivers of adoption and lessons for scaling up the most promoting.
• Identify the key communication materials from the documented cases and dissemination forums to inform stakeholders. 
• Identify key partners and type of partnership arrangements to raise resources for scaling-up the most promising case that are proven to be most appropriate for farmers. 

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Read more about CTA and partners' interventions to move agriculture further up the climate change agenda here

Mauritius endorses the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme Compact

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GIS – 24 July 2015: The signature ceremony of the Mauritius Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) Compact, intended to assist the Government in defining and accelerating implementation of its agricultural development agenda, was held yesterday at Westin Turtle Bay Resort and Spa, Balaclava. 

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade, Mr Etienne Sinatambou; the Minister of Agro-Industry and Food Security, Mr Mahen Kumar Seeruttun, and other personalities were present at the function.

CAADP is a commitment of African countries to pursue a higher path of economic growth through agriculture-led development in order to reduce poverty and hunger in the continent. CAADP countries are expected to achieve 6 percent growth in the agricultural sector of their economies and allocate at least 10 percent of the national budget to agriculture. 

The Compact validates the consensus on the goals and priorities that Mauritius has set for the sector and the partnerships and assistance that are required to achieve these goals. Its ultimate purpose is to increase the effectiveness of planning and execution of Government’s efforts as well as of the delivery of external assistance in the agricultural sector as well as provide a solid framework under which assistance can be scaled up to help meet the short and long term investment needs in the sector. 

In his address, Minister Sinatambou recalled that Mauritius, being a small island developing state is limited by its physical size to expand the agricultural sector.  Therefore, Mauritius is positioning itself to be more self-reliant through increase in agricultural productivity, creating more opportunities for innovation and value addition and intra-industry linkages, he underlined.  

According to him, it is important for Mauritius to develop its National Agriculture Investment Plan and an action plan for implementation.  These are important to enable us to benefit from financial support from the Global Agriculture and Food Security Programme Fund, totalling US$ 253.8 million, to finance our national projects, Mr Sinatambou said.

For his part, Minister Seeruttun stated that to modernise the agriculture sector and address the threat of food crisis, the Government of Mauritius through the Government Programme 2015 -2019 is proposing a series of measures to boost up the production of strategic crops for food security, encourage cross-border initiatives, empower farmers and attract young entrepreneurs to engage in agriculture.

He also announced the finalisation of a Strategic Plan for the agricultural sector.  Our aim is the promotion of an agri-business approach to farming, with the adoption of appropriate technology and sound management practices in order to achieve sustainable agricultural production, and to contribute significantly to social and economic development and food security, as well as to the effective and judicious use of the natural resource base of the country, he stressed.

Source: Government Information Service. 

CAADP WEBSITE Mauritius, July 23 2015 – Mauritius has become  the 15th member country in the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) to sign its national Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) Compact. 

“CAADP responds to the aspirations of Africa by placing agriculture as the engine of social and economic growth,” said Mr. Mahen Kumar Seerutun, Mauritian Minister of Agro-Industry and Food Security.

Speaking on behalf of the NEPAD Agency and the African Union Commission, Dr. Janet Edeme, Head of Rural Economy and Agriculture Division, expressed gratitude to Mauritius for building consensus among partners on necessary solutions to meet the challenges in agricultural development.  Dr. Edeme also remarked that it is important that Africa commit its own resources towards the continent’s development. 

The signing of a CAADP Compact symbolises a commitment to investment in consensually agreed key priority areas, and an overall vision for agricultural transformation.  According to CAADP principles, these agricultural priorities are arrived at through an inclusive national roundtable process. The priorities are by nature, results-based and reflect the views of all stakeholders in the country’s agriculture sector.

The signing ceremony of the CAADP Compact was led by the Minister of Agro-Industry and Food Security, Mahen Kumar Seerutun, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade, Etienne Sinatambou and COMESA’s Assistant Secretary-General for Programmes, Dr. Kipyego Cheluget.

“Africa boasts huge resources and economic potential, and therefore the role of both public and private sector in agriculture cannot be overemphasized,” Dr. Cheluget said. He added, “The Mauritius CAADP Compact will give impetus to other countries that have not already done so to sign their compacts and implement their National Agriculture Investment plan.“

The national CAADP Compact was also signed by representatives of the African Union Commission, the NEPAD Agency, Small Farmers Welfare Fund, the Ministry of Gender Equality, Child Development and Family Welfare, Ministry of Ocean Economy, the Mauritius Chamber of Commerce and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO).

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade, Mr Etienne Sinatambou stressed that the CAADP process is in line with the Mauritian development priorities, with particular emphasis on biotechnology.

Although continental in scope, the CAADP agenda is an integral part of national efforts to promote agricultural sector growth and economic transformation. In the case of Mauritius, the focus of the CAADP process is to strengthen and add value to the strategy for agricultural transformation under the ongoing Economic Development Strategy of the country as outlined in the Government Programme (2015-19). 

The ultimate goal of the CAADP process in Mauritius is to answer that call for the agricultural sector, by: 

(i)         Helping define a coherent long term framework to guide the planning and implementation of agricultural programmes; and

(ii)       Identifying strategic options and sources of economic empowerment and inclusive growth for the agricultural sector, and 

The CAADP Compact in Mauritius sets the parameters for long-term partnership in the agricultural sector.  It also specifies key commitments on the part of government and development partners.  Furthermore, the Compact clarifies expectations with respect to the agribusiness and farming communities in order to ensure successful implementation of the Government Programme 2015-2019.

Therefore the goals of CAADP are very much in harmony with Mauritius’ goals of creating a modern and sustainable agricultural sector that will contribute to economic growth and poverty reduction in the country. 

We need to cultivate young farmers

Farmers are the backbone of resilient local and regional food systems, yet many are aging or retiring. The Farm LASTS Project at the University of Vermont estimates that 70 percent of farmland in the United States will change hands over the next two decades. The age of the average U.S. farmer is 58.3 years old, and rural populations are declining as a percentage of the national population, according to U.S. Census Data.

To create a sustainable food system, we need to cultivate young farmers. Supporting beginning farmers needs to be a collaborative effort—one that connects young people with both financial and technical resources and provides the knowledge necessary to develop a successful business. New farmers also need sustainable funding and mutual partnerships with investors, which are increasingly found outside of traditional investment models. And MAURITIUS  is no exception to this strategy if we want to be food secure, less reliant of food imports. The following websites gives a glimpse of the various initiatives that are being taken in the US to bring in the youth in agriculture.

Are HoneyBees dying en masse?

Honeybees have thrived for 50 million years, each colony 40 to 50,000 individuals coordinated in amazing harmony. So why, seven years ago, did colonies start dying en masse? Marla Spivak reveals four reasons which are interacting with tragic consequences. This is not simply a problem because bees pollinate a third of the world’s crops. Could this incredible species be holding up a mirror for us?

Watch this video



For those interested in bees, the 20th May issue of Nature has a free to access Supplement on bees, which includes assessments of the state of knowledge and opinions on status and future of bees as pollinators in context on current agriculture practices. See http://www.nature.com/nature/outlook/bees/

Five Reasons Why Youth Should Choose Agriculture

This article is extract of the world bank blog. Check the site for more information.

When weighing career choices, many young people in the developing world tend to shy away from agriculture. I, too, once found myself disenchanted by the small villages and rice fields I grew up seeing every day. As the conventional belief goes, agriculture means an archaic lifestyle and a future with limited opportunities for youth.

But I later learned I was wrong. Plenty of evidence shows us that agriculture provides youth a viable way to harvest success and grow a sustainable future. In other words, I believe youth can, and should, choose agriculture. Here are five reasons:

1. Agriculture matters to the future of development.
 

When it comes to fighting poverty, #agriculture is more effective than other sectors. More at http://t.co/H7CQB0GUHK pic.twitter.com/t6WTnhpai7


— WB Agriculture (@WB_Agriculture) May 1, 2014

Agriculture is up to four times more effective than other sectors in reducing poverty. Increasingly, the world is counting on agriculture to produce more nutritious food for — and improve the livelihoods of — a booming population, especially the poor. What could be more meaningful than being part of a proven solution to such a critical challenge?

2. Agriculture can be a gold mine for young entrepreneurs.

Gourmet Products Sustainably Produced in Senegal

(Video via InfoDev of the World Bank)

Meet Randa Filfili, a young entrepreneur from Senegal. She is also the first Senegalese producer who saw value in the fruit of cashew trees that others had considered waste, and turned it into “niche” jam products for export. Through agribusiness, Randa has not only carved out a successful career of her own, but also helped local farmers reach global markets, and create jobs for other young people — especially women. So, the next time you come across Randa’s all-natural cashew apple butter in your local produce store, think about how you can also start up a business in agriculture to help both yourself and the rural poor.

3. Agriculture is not cool? Think again. 

Innovations for Transparency

(Video via UNICEF Uganda)

In Uganda, a young team with the World Bank and UNICEF used a mobile and web-based app called “U-Report” to swiftly help 190,000 farmers save their bananas — a staple food for Ugandans — from a vicious disease. Countries like Kenya and Rwanda are also eager to boost productivity through information and communication technologies and other creative solutions. Agriculture in the developing world has become a field vibrant with effective innovations, thanks to a growing number of young techie minds that make it happen.

4. Agricultural research needs young brainpower.

Transforming Agriculture in Eastern Africa

(Video via the World Bank)

If you are a “young nerd” into development research, agriculture may be the right place for you. Numerous stories from East Africa and other places have shown that research revolutionizes agriculture and transforms livelihoods. Today, more than before, climate change and a growing demand for nutritious food are for fresh ideas and renewed knowledge to explore ICT in agriculture, foster climate-smart agriculture and innovate in the sector to power future growth.

5. The trend of youth choosing agriculture is growing.
 

Photo by Arne Hoel / World Bank Flickr

Attitudes toward agriculture are already changing. In Cameroon, where agriculture is becoming more competitive, young educated Cameroonians “have decided to become farmers, acquire land, grow maize professionally for trade, and manage their enterprises in order to earn a living,” according to Félix Nkapemin, an agricultural expert working with local farmers. Other countries like Armenia, Brazil, Malawi, and Senegal are investing in youth and agriculture with the support from the World Bank Group and other development organizations. Young people are also increasingly speaking up for themselves on why they choose agriculture.

The trend is growing. Support for the agriculture sector is increasing. The list of reasons is endless. This International Youth Day, I invite you to share your thoughts and experiences on why you think youth should engage in agriculture, and how it can help reduce poverty and boost shared prosperity.