Proposed Law to Target Food Imports in Bid for Self-Sufficiency

New legislation is on the horizon for organic farming in a move to boost local food production and self-sufficiency, it was announced at a community event in Quatre-Bornes. Arvin Boolell, the Minister of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy, and Fisheries, revealed the plans at a certificate award ceremony for graduates of the Organic Household Garden Project.

The minister stressed the need for the country to become more self-sufficient, aiming to “produce what we consume and consume what we produce.”

He also highlighted the massive volume of annual food imports. To help meet this goal, the ministry has identified agricultural land that will be made available to farmers to promote larger-scale cultivation.

He added that the sector must also embrace technology transfers to improve yields while adapting to and capitalising on the effects of climate change.

The Organic Household Garden Project, a scheme designed to promote household agriculture, will be supported by a new public awareness campaign to reignite interest in family gardening.

Forty-five participants who successfully completed the project received gardening kits and certificates at the event, which took place at the La Source community centre.

In attendance were a number of prominent figures, including Junior Minister for Agro-Industry, Fabrice David; the Mayor of Quatre-Bornes, Rudy Kennoo; Government Chief Whip, Stéphanie Anquetil; and Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Veda Baloomoody.

According to Junior Minister Fabrice David, the ministry’s new direction will be a greener and healthier one, requiring the involvement of all stakeholders.

The new organic farming legislation will aim to promote the production of quality organic products, and establish the minimum requirements and regulations for the production, handling, processing, and labelling of organic goods.

Source: Le Mauricien