Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha on Thursday visited Kato village in Region Eight, where he met farmers from Kato and Paramakatoi who will take part in a major farming project.
The initiative forms part of the government’s efforts to increase food production and create economic opportunities in hinterland communities.
The project will focus on the cultivation of crops such as carrots, onions and potatoes across about 50 acres of land in the region.
Minister Mustapha was joined at the engagement by ministers Sarah Browne and Pauline Sukhai.
Officials said land has already been identified and clearing has started with support from the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute and the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority in Kato.
Around 25 acres will be used during the first phase of the project, while additional lands are expected to be prepared later.
At Paramakatoi, a group of 16 persons has been formed to lead farming efforts. Work has already started on land preparation, and cultivation plans include trials for strawberry farming.
The government says it will continue providing support and technical assistance to help ensure the success of the initiative and strengthen agriculture in hinterland communities.
The report was filed for LRTVS Newswatch by Shaina.