Georgetown: With the implementation of the Black Sigatoka Management programme by the National Agricultural Research & Extension Institute (NAREI), farmers from the villages of Buxton and Little Baiboo have received immense benefits.
On a visit to the communities Friday, Region 4 Crop Extension Assistant, Maleka Russell made it known that with the recent execution of the programme, evidence has shown of its effectiveness.
“Starting in the month of March last year, we have employed several agricultural practices which the farmers have been following. We have seen positive results in that there has not been any re-occurrence of the Black Sigatoka disease. Therefore, putting those practices into place and working together with the team, the project has become more than just a success.” Russell stated
Also, with the project entailed the provision of planting materials, chemicals, and technical advice to farmers. NAREI aims to show the farmers how to increase their yields significantly by managing the Black Sigatoka disease.
Narinedat Harridat, District Crop Extension Officer also outlined some aspects of the programme.
“Management of the Black Sigatoka disease entails three basic aspects… We are looking at the good nutrition where we fertilize regularly, secondly we are looking at sanitation, and thirdly we are adhering to a strict spraying regiment using the various fungicides, the right rates and at the right intervals,” Harridat said
Thus far, the farmers have credited NAREI, and with the project being helpful, many were able to improve their techniques and yield more.
NAREI is actively engaging adaptive research that focuses on improving crop production and productivity for enhanced food security and rural development. Their Strategic Plan (2013- 2020) envisions the institute as being the major facilitator for a prosperous, food secure and environmentally sustainable Guyana. This will be achieved through enhancing agricultural productivity and quality of produce, through generation and dissemination of newer and efficient technologies and services, reduced import of agri-produce and products, reduced malnutrition and environmental degradation.
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