Empowering Banana Farmers with Bioinputs: A Workshop in Magdalena
Sixty-six banana and tropical fruit producers participated in a workshop focused on the benefits and applications of bioinputs in Orihueca, Magdalena. The event, organized by a collaborative effort involving Agrosavia, Tibaitatá Research Center, Caribia Research Center, and the Latin American and Caribbean Coordinator of Small Producers and Fair Trade Workers (CLAC), aimed to shed light on sustainable agricultural practices and enhance food security.
Paola Cuartas, a researcher from Agrosavia’s Department of Bioproducts, emphasized the significance of this initiative: «We want Asocomag producers to understand what bioinputs are, their benefits, and how to use them effectively." She highlighted a key aspect of the campaign – strengthening five biofactories across the country in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture. This partnership ensures strict quality control and adherence to safety standards set by the ICA, guaranteeing high-quality products for the producers.
Juan Fernando Marulanda, representing CLAC, underscored the importance of these workshops for small producers: «It is essential that producers understand what they are applying to their crops. With the support of Agrosavia and the other actors involved, we can create spaces for producers to stay informed and continue to increase their productivity in a sustainable way."
The comprehensive workshop covered a range of topics, including:
- The Bioinsumo Consumption Campaign: What it entails, its goals, and its impact on bolstering sustainable agriculture and food security.
- Harnessing Microorganisms: Participants learned about the role microorganisms play in soil health and how their use can contribute to more robust and productive crops.
- Developing Organic-Mineral Fertilizers: The workshop explored the benefits of these fertilizers, which combine the advantages of organic and mineral components for optimal plant nutrition.
- Bananas & Bioinputs: Best Practices: Tailored information focusing on specific techniques for applying bioinputs to promote healthy banana growth and yields.
Beyond theory
The workshop also provided a valuable opportunity for hands-on learning through the sharing of actual experiences. Local farmers who have already adopted bioinputs in their practices shared their personal stories, highlighting the positive results they’ve achieved. Their testimonials served as a powerful testament to the tangible benefits of embracing these sustainable farming methods.
How does this bioinput initiative address the power imbalances between large corporations and small-scale banana farmers, ensuring that farmers truly benefit from the initiative?[[1](https://grain.org/en/article/7175-corporate-bioinputs-agribusiness-s-new-toxic-trap)]
With the growing demand for sustainable agriculture, what are your thoughts on the effectiveness of this bioinput initiative in truly empowering banana farmers and ensuring long-term food security?
