Kralendijk – Last week, POP Bonaire Foundation, a Rural Development Plan, awarded certificates to the Kunukero (farmers) who have participated in a course on how to produce quality meat.

Commissioner Rolanda Hellburg-Makaai, in charge of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Fishery, who was present at happening, said that agriculture on Bonaire is beginning to get the attention it deserves. According to the commissioner, many countries begin to see the importance of the agricultural sector.

According to Hellburg-Makaai, the Government of Bonaire, also feels that the agricultural sector is important to the island. The commissioner also stated that it is the intention of Government to reorganize both the agricultural sector and fisheries so that they can better contribute to the island economy.

“It is good to be aware of what depending on imports means”, said Hellburg-Makaai. The commmisioner referred to the 8-month period during which the vessels from Venezuela, normally carrying fruits and vegetables to the island, were not allowed to make their usual trips.

“We sincerely hope It is too hope that in the near future our own local farmers will be able to produce bananas, tomatoes, peppers, watermelons, pumpkins, small cucumbers, avocados and offer these for sale”, said Hellburg-Makaai.

“For the growth of our agricultural sector we must also work on the knowledge of our farmers. We can not stick to just the tradition, but we must try to implement new techniques”, said the commissioner. The commissioner congratulated the participants to the course “Let this be the first start on the way to a brilliant future for our agricultural sector and animal husbandry”, said Hellburg-Makaai.