FAO to support organic farming in Mauritius
Under the TCP, the FAO will assist Mauritius to strengthen national capabilities on organic agriculture through proposed amendments to legislation, draft of secondary regulations, develop strategic plans and training manuals. It also makes provision for the training of farmers, researchers, programme managers and technicians. In addition, a study tour in a certification body abroad will be planned for Officers of the technical cadre.
It is expected that at the end of the project, Mauritius will benefit from an improved legal framework and adequate technical capacity to support the organic agricultural management system that will ensure enhanced food security, rural development, sustainable livelihoods and environmental integrity through trainings. The project will cater for the transfer of modern and conventional approaches as well as networking, building capacities in organic production, processing, certification and marketing in Mauritius.
This agreement is in line with the endeavour of the Government to promote organic food production. The current budget 2015-2016 has spelt out Government's commitment towards support to sustainable agricultural development and safe food production for the local market and access to international trade as well as reducing the high reliance on chemical inputs. Government's ambition is to produce not less than 50% of the total food production according to bio norms.
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