Panama agricultural development and MIDA administration

Panama’s Ministry of Agricultural Development (MIDA) is advancing several initiatives focused on rural development and agricultural support, while simultaneously facing internal administrative hurdles.

In terms of development and technical support, MIDA has been preparing for the III International Capacity Development Course for the Application of the Life Improvement Approach (EMV). Led by international expert Sakayo Wada, this training aims to prepare instructors for an October course involving scholars from 10 Latin American and Caribbean countries. Recent technical efforts have expanded to include training for robusta coffee producers in Colón and workshops for 21 producers from the Guna de Madugandí indigenous community in Chepo regarding sustainable cocoa production. Other field initiatives include demonstrations of small-scale fruit and poultry production in Capira and guidance on soil analysis, citrus pruning, and screwworm fly prevention in Los Santos.

MIDA has also provided technical assistance to the Asociación de Piñeros del Área Este in eastern Panama, helping over 60 pineapple producers secure legal status and supporting cultivation efforts intended for export. Additionally, the Ministry is conducting sanitary campaigns, such as cattle traceability programs and bat control to prevent bovine rabies.

Alongside these efforts, Minister Roberto Linares has highlighted significant workforce challenges. During a National Assembly hearing, Linares reported that 60% of MIDA’s total staff and 50% of its professional ranks are retired. He noted that legal constraints regarding the replacement of retired employees, who continue to receive high salaries, are preventing the recruitment of younger professionals necessary for field operations.