The working visit took place from October 15 to 21, 2026, at the invitation of W6 Engineering N.V. The mission focused on exchanging knowledge, exploring modern production methods and identifying opportunities to further develop Suriname’s agriculture and livestock sector.
In addition to Minister Noersalim, the delegation consisted of Romarlisa Bisphan, acting deputy director of Agri Health at LVV, Floyd Ost, policy adviser and coordinator at Landbouw Maatschappij Brokopondo N.V., and Emanuel Enjoem, policy adviser and coordinator of International Relations at LVV.
Research and technological innovation
During the visit, the delegation held talks with the Colombian organisation for agricultural research and technological development (AGROSAVIA) and the Instituto Colombiano Agropecuario (ICA).
At AGROSAVIA, discussions were held on cooperation in agricultural research, technological innovation and knowledge transfer. These included practical training courses, exchanges of experts, joint research projects and the development of pilot and demonstration projects.
The talks with ICA focused mainly on animal and plant health, veterinary inspections and the prevention and control of animal diseases. According to LVV, cooperation with this institution can contribute to strengthening veterinary services and expertise within Suriname’s agricultural sector.
Colombian livestock farming methods may be applicable in Suriname
The delegation also made field visits to the livestock farms Nelore Farm and Finca Francia. There, it became acquainted with modern techniques in breeding, animal nutrition, animal health and business management. The knowledge gained is intended to help explore opportunities to further develop dairy and beef cattle farming in Suriname. It will be examined which Colombian production methods are suitable for application under Surinamese conditions.
Cooperation agreement in preparation
An important outcome of the working visit is the intention to formalise cooperation between Suriname and Colombia in a memorandum of understanding (MoU). This agreement may include arrangements for cooperation between LVV, AGROSAVIA and ICA, exchanges of experts, training, joint research and the further development of the livestock sector.
The content of the agreement and the procedure for its signing still need to be worked out with the parties involved. No final cooperation agreement has therefore yet been concluded. As a follow-up to the mission, a return visit to Suriname was also offered. Representatives of the Colombian institutions and potential investors may then explore the opportunities within Suriname’s agriculture and livestock sector. During such a visit, locations for demonstration projects may also be considered and concrete investment and cooperation opportunities discussed.
Private sector involved in cooperation
W6 Engineering N.V., led by CEO William Páez, supported the preparation and implementation of the working visit. The company facilitated, among other things, contacts with Colombian institutions and businesses. The Ministry of LVV will further follow up on the contacts made and set priorities for possible joint activities.
Through the intended cooperation, the ministry aims to use international knowledge and technology to increase local agricultural production, modernise the livestock sector and strengthen food security in Suriname. The concrete results will depend on the further elaboration of the agreements and the implementation of joint projects.
