Government Provides $800K in Fertilizer Support to Citrus Growers

The Government of Belize is stepping up its support to the citrus industry, with thousands of bags of fertilizer being provided to growers as the sector continues its efforts to recover from years of challenges. Agriculture, Food Security and New Growth Industries Minister, Hon. Rodwell Ferguson, on yesterday handed over 9,150 bags of fertilizer to the Citrus Growers’ Association in Pomona, Stann Creek. The fertilizer is valued at close to eight hundred thousand dollars and was handed over during a brief ceremony at the CGA headquarters. The handover was witnessed by CGA CEO Servulo Baeza, members of the Ministry’s senior management team and members of the Citrus Growers’ Association. During the ceremony, Minister Ferguson spoke about government’s commitment to supporting the agriculture sector. He also expressed hope that with continued support, the citrus industry can once again become a strong and successful sector. For citrus growers, the assistance comes at a critical time. The industry has gone through some difficult years, largely because of citrus greening, a disease that has affected citrus trees and impacted production across the sector. CGA Chairman Ecclestone Irving welcomed the government’s support and expressed gratitude for the assistance. Irving says citrus growers were eagerly anticipating the fertilizer, which will provide much-needed support as they work to maintain their groves and improve production. Following the handover, the fertilizer was immediately distributed to members of the Association. The assistance is expected to help growers as the citrus industry continues its rebound, with producers working to recover from the effects of citrus greening and rebuild the sector. For an industry that provides employment and contributes to Belize’s agricultural economy, the fertilizer support is being seen as an important step as citrus growers work toward getting the sector back on stronger footing. /////