Belize Assumes CIRSA Presidency at Regional Agricultural Meeting

Belize has officially taken the presidency of the Regional International Agricultural Health Committee (CIRSA) during the 72nd Ordinary Meeting, which started today in San Pedro. The two-day event brings together agriculture ministers from across the region to discuss agricultural health and food security.

Minister of Agriculture José Abelardo Mai took over as CIRSA President. In his speech, Mai highlighted the importance of teamwork for improving agricultural productivity and resilience, particularly in addressing the screw-worm infestation in livestock, with ongoing support from OIRSA, USDA, and IICA.

The meeting also spotlighted Belize’s advancements in agricultural research and biological pest control. Minister Mai shared progress on the Formosana banana variety, which is resistant to Fusarium Tropical Race 4, and highlighted the Belmopán insectary’s production of over 367,000 Anagyrus kamali specimens to combat the pink mealybug, reducing pesticide use. Discussions during the meeting included the 2024 CIRSA Presidency Report, OIRSA’s Executive Directorate Report, and strategies to tackle the screwworm issue. The event concludes tomorrow with the signing of the official meeting minutes.

As CIRSA President, Belize aims to lead efforts to enhance agricultural health and food security across the region.