The Tableland Pineapple Farmers' Association has launched the fourth edition of its National Fruit Festival in partnership with iTHINK Global Consulting Services at the Todd's Road RC Primary School, Longdenville.
This year's festival is scheduled for June 26 to 28. The festival, themed Understanding and Respecting the Fruits of our Land, will highlight various aspects of agriculture and holistic lifestyles and will continue to engage the nation's youth.
At the festival's launch, agricultural economist Omardath Maharaj said: "Our collective actions are meant to raise the profile of family farming and smallholder farming by focusing world attention on its significant role in eradicating hunger and poverty, reducing the cost of living, providing food security and nutrition, improving livelihoods, managing natural resources, protecting the environment and achieving sustainable development, particularly in rural areas."
Students and staff members engaged in planting pineapples, coconuts, plantains, pomegranate, five fingers and bananas. The activity strengthened agricultural education, beautification, awareness of holistic lifestyles and camaraderie among children. The farmers' association will also join with the Felicity Charlieville Fishing Association and other stakeholders to stand up against bullying, especially in schools.