Bahia launches biotechnological seedling hub and dairy plant to lift family farms
A biofactory located between Ilhéus and Uruçuca in southern Bahia was featured on TV Globo's Globo Rural program, highlighting its production of high‑quality seedling clones for cacao, cassava and pineapple. The facility distributes seedlings free or at subsidised rates to family farmers and runs training courses, supporting the revival of cacao cultivation after the witch‑sweeper disease.
In western Bahia’s Correntina, a state‑backed dairy processing plant has transformed the local milk chain. Established through the regional development agency CAR, the plant now processes up to 3,000 litres of milk per day in the rainy season and about 150,000 litres each month, providing a reliable market for dozens of family producers. It supplies institutional food programmes, sells yoghurt and other dairy products, and has enabled farmers such as Jesuano Santana to expand her herd and increase income.
Both initiatives are credited with strengthening agricultural productivity, diversifying rural incomes and improving livelihoods for small‑scale producers across the state.