The bird flu outbreak in Suriname is under control, according to Minister Mike Noersalim of Landbouw, Veeteelt en Visserij (LVV, Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries). No new infections have so far been identified at other poultry farms. However, no agreement has yet been reached on compensation for the affected poultry farmer. The minister said this during the press briefing ahead of the meeting of the Raad van Ministers (RvM, Council of Ministers).
Noersalim indicated that the bird flu infection has been confirmed. Samples are being sent abroad to determine whether it concerns a highly pathogenic or low-pathogenic variant.
Culling operations were carried out at the affected farm and the site was disinfected. According to the minister, there are currently no indications that the disease has spread to other poultry farms.
The affected entrepreneur considers the proposed compensation insufficient. Noersalim stated that, under the law, the damage must be assessed by a certified appraiser. The financial settlement has not yet been completed.
Investigation into cassava disease
The minister also addressed a disease threatening cassava cultivation. LVV has identified cassava varieties that may be resistant. Further research must determine whether they are actually resistant to the disease.
In addition, the ministry is working to ensure the availability of healthy planting material so that farmers can continue their production. International support is also being sought for research and control measures.
Noersalim stressed that controls on the import of plant and animal products are necessary to keep new diseases and pests out of the country. He urged travellers not to bring vegetables, fruit or plants without the required documents. Products found without the proper papers may be destroyed.
Monitoring of pesticides
LVV is also working on stricter controls on pesticide use. Farmers are receiving training in the safe application of pesticides. According to the minister, a Pesticidenwet (Pesticides Act) has also been submitted to strengthen oversight and enforcement.
LVV’s residue laboratory is expected to be structurally completed at the end of October. The equipment will follow at a later stage. Once the laboratory is fully operational, it should be able to conduct tests for pesticide residues and heavy metals.
According to Noersalim, US$ 10.6 million has been approved for the purchase of agricultural machinery. The ministry also wants to deploy drones in rice cultivation. These plans are intended to contribute to more efficient production and lower production costs for farmers.
