(Source DPI)
-“It is recognised that no one country in the region can seriously manage the pest problem”- Dr. Homenauth
Guyana, Brazil and Suriname are collaborating to eradicate the carambola fruit fly which plagues agricultural produce and poses economic and environmental challenges. in the region.
At a workshop hosted by the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) earlier today, CEO of the National Agricultural and Research Extension Institute (NAREI) Dr. Oudho Homenauth said the exercise is centred around the elimination of the Carambola fruit fly, which poses a serious threat. Dr. Homenauth is of the view that there is a need for collaboration to effectively address the issue.
Chief Executive Officer, National Agricultural and Research Extension Institute (NAREI) Dr. Oudho Homenauth
“It is recognised that no one country in the region can seriously manage the pest problem. We all have to work together. So, it is imperative that our efforts be combined; and the three countries, that is Guyana, Suriname and Brazil have agreed to work together to have a unified approach to make a difference,” Dr. Homenauth explained.
The NAREI CEO said that as Guyana continues to expand its non-traditional agricultural sector, systems need to be in place to protect crops.
Participants of the carambola fruit fly workshop
This initiative was seconded by Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Delma Nedd who noted the effects of the carambola fruit fly on Guyana’s agricultural development. She said studies show the fly is responsible for as much as fifty percent yield loss of the carambola crop.
“The increased movement of people and commodities along with the porosity of Guyana’s border increases the likelihood for the introduction and establishment of plant pests and diseases. Therefore, the implementation of concerted pest eradication efforts among Guyana, Brazil and Suriname, will alleviate the challenges faced in the control and eradication of the carambola fruit fly.”
Nedd added that the Agriculture Ministry will continue its monitoring and assessment to eradicate the agricultural pest.
