Suriname strengthens climate-smart greenhouse farming via FAO mission

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and Suriname’s Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Fisheries (LVV) have launched a technical mission to strengthen climate-smart greenhouse cultivation. This initiative is part of the Gender-responsive Climate-smart Agriculture and Food Systems (GCAF) project, funded by the Canadian government through Global Affairs Canada.

Between July 27 and July 31, the mission conducted field visits and training sessions in Wanica, Brokopondo, Powakka, and Nickerie. Over 130 participants, including farmers, technicians, and local leaders, received practical instruction on greenhouse construction, ventilation, crop protection, and climate control. The program emphasized inclusivity, with women making up 58 percent of participants and youth accounting for 21 percent.

Key activities included evaluating existing greenhouse structures to optimize materials and insect netting, as well as discussing infrastructure requirements for new nurseries with community leaders in Powakka. In Nickerie, a digital monitoring sensor was installed at the KVGP Cooperative to assist farmers with data-driven cultivation decisions. The findings from this mission will inform future training, greenhouse improvements, and technical support within the region.