Approximately thirty farmers recently participated in an intensive agricultural workshop at Commissaris Weythingweg, near Libalonweg, demonstrating strong interest in acquiring practical farming knowledge and cultivation techniques. The session provided a crucial platform for agricultural producers to exchange experiences and address persistent challenges in vegetable cultivation.
Farmers highlighted significant field challenges, particularly concerning pest infestations and unpredictable weather patterns that consistently impact crop production. Participants primarily cultivate export-oriented crops including yardlong beans, okra, and sim peppers, making effective pest management essential for market success. Recent field visits confirmed widespread difficulties with crop diseases and climatic variability, reinforcing the need for targeted agricultural guidance.
The collaborative event was organized through partnership between Frits Fresh Impex, RamBhai Impex, HJ-Agro N.V., and the WUSC-Caribbean Sustainable Agriculture in the Caribbean (SAC) Project. Market stakeholders emphasized that knowledge enhancement benefits not only individual farmers but strengthens entire agricultural value chains.
Workshop content focused on practical solutions including pest identification and control, safe application of agricultural chemicals, improved cultivation methodologies, and climate-resilient farming practices. Live demonstrations of effective spraying techniques and responsible pesticide usage provided tangible strategies for production optimization and loss reduction.
The session facilitated open dialogue between farmers and industry experts, creating valuable knowledge exchange where agricultural practitioners shared field experiences while technical specialists contributed scientific insights. This interactive format received unanimous appreciation from all participants.
The initiative followed the Inclusive Market Systems (IMS) approach, emphasizing collaboration among farmers, businesses, and market participants. The SAC project serves as a facilitation body, connecting stakeholders, promoting knowledge sharing, and supporting initiatives that enhance agricultural sector resilience.
Organizers stressed the importance of high-quality agricultural products for both domestic consumption and export markets. Through continued knowledge transfer and cooperative efforts, Suriname’s agricultural competitiveness shows significant potential for growth.
Due to overwhelming participation and positive feedback, organizers plan to conduct follow-up sessions with more advanced coverage of practical cultivation guidance and market-oriented production techniques.
The WUSC Caribbean organization has implemented the SAC project in Suriname since April 2022, focusing on climate-resilient agricultural production. Previous consultations and field visits revealed substantial demand for practical knowledge regarding climate change adaptation, pest management, and disease control among export-market producers. This informational session was specifically organized in response to farmer requests.
Participating farmers operate as outgrowers for export companies Frits Fresh Impex and Ram Bhai Impex, who facilitated attendance through their communication networks. WUSC Caribbean plays a coordinating role while collaborating with agricultural input supplier HJ Agro N.V. and export partners. Future sessions aim to incorporate additional relevant stakeholders to provide comprehensive support for agricultural development.