The agricultural sector is getting a major technology upgrade, thanks to new equipment donated through a Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) project aimed at improving the country’s statistical systems. 

The initiative is carried out by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and supports Belize in modernizing the way it collects and reports agricultural data.

This week, representatives from KOICA, FAO, and the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and New Growth Industries visited the field to see how the new tools are being used. 

The team observed demonstrations of digital surveys through Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing devices, drone-based crop assessments, and software that processes and analyzes the data. 

These technologies will help Belize gather more accurate information about agricultural production and improve national reporting.

After the field demonstration, officials held a brief ceremony to formally hand over a Utility Task Vehicle and a trailer. 

These two additions, along with drones, digital survey tools, and advanced data software, form part of a larger equipment package designed to help teams reach remote areas and collect information more efficiently.

The Ministry says the investment will strengthen evidence-based planning, enhance food security, and improve support for farmers. 

Better data will also help the country meet reporting requirements for the Sustainable Development Goals and address challenges affecting the agriculture sector.

Source - https://www.greaterbelize.com