Nurturing sustainable agriculture: A glimpse into Suriname's pineapple transformation

Spearheaded by the ASTA Joint Programme of FAO, UNIDO, UNFPA, and ILO, with a singular focus on transforming the food system. Funded by the Joint SDG Fund, this project is a beacon of hope, advocating for the support of local organic pineapple production and the modernization of supply chain management.

Recently, a UN team, including Ms. Joanna Kazana, the UN Resident Coordinator for Suriname, and Ms. Margherita Bavagnoli, FAO Rome economic adviser, embarked on a mission to the vibrant pineapple field trial site in Redi Doti village, nestled near Paramaribo, and a bustling fruit and vegetable processing workshop in Pierre Kondre.

The primary mission was clear: to immerse themselves in the Surinamese farming landscape, establish connections with UN beneficiaries, and glean firsthand insights into the remarkable progress made in enhancing the productivity of local pineapple varieties.

A lively exchange unfolded between the UN team and local farmers, spanning discussions on traditional production methods and the exploration of new, advanced production models. Intriguing practices such as mechanical land preparation, staggered planting, and artificial flower induction for year-round production were at the forefront of these conversations.

A particular highlight of the day was the revelation of the inner workings of the Asajaka Weno women's cooperative. This cooperative stands as a formidable force, actively involved in procuring fresh fruits from local women farmers and skillfully transforming these treasures into fresh and natural juice, pulp, and frozen cuts of pineapples.

This hands-on interaction serves as a testament to the unwavering commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and active engagement with indigenous communities. More than a project, it is a commitment aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), fostering a more resilient agrifood system that resonates with the heartbeat of Suriname's rich agricultural heritage.

In the intricate dance between innovation and tradition, the UN's involvement in Suriname's agricultural landscape is not merely a transformation of food systems but a celebration of the intertwined tapestry of community, sustainability, and progress. As the pineapple fields flourish and the cooperative thrives, Suriname takes a step closer to a future where agriculture is not just a means of sustenance but a symbol of sustainable prosperity.