By Belize Live News Staff: Minister of Agriculture, Food Security, and Enterprise (MAFSE) of Belize, Jose Abelardo Mai, is currently in Honduras as part of an official tour aimed at addressing agricultural concerns, particularly the New World Screwworm situation. The tour, which will also include a stop in Panama, underscores Belize’s proactive stance on safeguarding its livestock industry from the potential threat posed by this pest.
During his visit, Minister Mai, accompanied by CEO Servulo Baeza and Adviser Hugh O’Brien, toured the Hondu Palma factory, which specializes in the production of African palm oil (Elaeis Guineensis). The African palm oil industry has been expanding rapidly, and Belize is exploring this frontier for its potential economic benefits. Minister Mai’s visit to the factory signals Belize’s growing interest in this industry.
The Belize delegation is also working closely with their Central American counterparts to study the latest developments in pest control and prevention strategies. The top-level MAFSE team is focused on identifying methods for the prevention, eradication, and control of the New World Screwworm, a serious pest that poses a direct threat to the livestock industry. Through collaborative efforts, they aim to safeguard Belize’s agricultural and livestock sectors.
As of now, Belize remains free of the screwworm, but Minister Mai and his team have emphasized the need for continued vigilance by all agricultural and livestock organizations.
