Stakeholders in dialogue at the 'Strengthening Family Farming and Small-Scale Agriculture in Belize' ©FAO/ Armando Aban

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise (MAFSE), convened a two-day event titled “Strengthening Family Farming and Small-Scale Agriculture in Belize.” The event was held at the Ministry of Agriculture Conference Room in Showgrounds, Belmopan between July 17-18, 2024.

The event is a pivotal component of the “Farmers’ Organizations for ACP” (FO4ACP) project. It aims to foster policy dialogue between government officials and farmers’ organizations to develop an Action Plan for Family Farming. This initiative will address national strategies and policies related to family farming and establish a roadmap for government commitment.

A Focus on Sustainable Agriculture

The FO4ACP program, funded by IFAD, the EU, and OACPS, and implemented by regional farmer organizations, seeks to improve the livelihoods, food security, and safety of smallholder and family farmers. Working with national farmer organizations, agri-agencies, and partners in about 70 countries, FO4ACP reaches over 52 million smallholder farmers. The program’s four priorities are:

1. Enabling farmer organizations to improve access to markets and finance.
2. Enhancing farmer organizations’ capacity for policy dialogue.
3. Supporting the institutional development of farmer organizations.
4. Promoting knowledge sharing and peer learning.

Kick-off of the National Action Plan

Over the past six months, a participatory process has been underway to develop a Family Farming/Small-Scale Agriculture National Action Plan. This event marks the kick-off of this process, held in consultation with Belizean government officials.

Objectives of the Activity

• Strengthening the capacities of organizations for policy dialogue and advocacy.
• Enhancing policy dialogue between government officials and farmers’ organizations.
• Discussing national strategies and policies related to family farming.
• Presenting and agreeing on a roadmap for the Family Farming National Action Plan with government commitment.

A Collaborative Effort

Participants in the event include representatives from the Government of Belize, the Executive Secretariat of the Central American Agricultural Council (SE-CAC), 20 selected farmers’ organizations, FAO, IFAD, PROCASUR, academia, NGOs, and the PDRR (Rural Regional Dialogue Program).

As the event progresses, discussions will focus on creating a sustainable framework for family farming in Belize. This initiative is expected to significantly enhance the livelihoods of smallholder and family farmers, ensuring food security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in the region.