Resilient Belize Program Focuses on Building Capacity of Tomato Farmers
The project is focusing on tomato farmers and building that industry. According to C.E.O. Osmond Martinez, Belize imports millions of dollars worth of canned and bottled tomato products annually. The investment in this industry can create jobs and boost economic activity in the country. The program will address limitations such as knowledge, science and technology and access to low-cost finance. Doctor Vincent Palacio, President of the University of Belize, speaks of the significance of the partnership and the institution providing research and development strategies.
Dr. Vincent Palacio, President, University of Belize
Dr. Vincent Palacio
“UB will discharge a very important function. We are demonstrating our capacity to contribute to national development here in Belize. You heard the minister speak just now of the importance of national development and that is what we are doing at UB, contributing to national development. This is a major mandate in our own mission here at UB. As the project proposal clearly outlined, tomatoes is a key crop which much economic importance is geared to or it creates much economic importance to small farmers. It is very relatable and translatable and applicable to where it must be planted. I will not be labor the point that agriculture remains one of the pillars of our productive sector in Belize, but rather this very specific example today clearly proves that UB can and will remain relevant as a key partner in the development of Belize.”
Dr. Louis Zabaneh, Minister of State, Education
Dr. Louis Zabaneh
“Many times our small farmers take the brunt of those unexpected shocks. Things like climate change, weather-related activities, stresses from the economy, high cost of credit, [and] the difficulties with marketing their product. They are the most vulnerable and in fact those who are in most need of this kind of intervention. So I comment all the authors of this program for making this happen with this M.O.U.”
