Punta del Este hosts Regional Grasslands and Herders Forum

The Regional Grasslands and Herders Forum has commenced in Punta del Este, Uruguay, bringing together approximately 400 participants from the region and around the world. The event aims to create a space for dialogue and the exchange of experiences regarding the role of grasslands and the communities that manage them.

Key discussion topics include food production, biodiversity conservation, rural development, and resilience against climate change. The forum is organized by the Uruguayan Ministry of Livestock, Agriculture and Fisheries, the Ministry of Environment, the National Meat Institute, and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) as part of the framework for the International Year of Grasslands and Herders 2026.

During the opening, Uruguayan Minister of Livestock, Agriculture and Fisheries Alfredo Fratti highlighted that natural grasslands cover approximately 55% of Uruguay's territory and support nearly 70% of the country's agricultural establishments, many of which are family-run. The event also emphasizes the importance of rural women's leadership and generational renewal in the agricultural sector.