September 2016
PNG women vegetable farmers with their harvest
As reported by PNG WiADF’s Publicity Officer, Kerryanne Meskere, a week long training on Soil Health, Plant Health & Human Nutrition took place on July 25th-29th, 2016 in Mutzing, Markham District, Morobe Province, Papua New Guinea. The training funded by the Pacific Island Farmer Organization Network (PIFON), was hosted and facilitated by PNG Women in Agriculture (PNGWIA) with support from the National Agriculture Research Institute (NARI).
‘Take care of the soil and it will take care of the plants and human. Abuse it, and when the soil dies, it will take humanity with it’, was the key message received.
Trainer, Peter Linibi, who is knowledgeable in this area, challenged almost 20 interested individuals emphasizing the importance of balancing soil before planting crops, being conscious of plant health and taking care of one’s digestive system and diet. Peter represented PNG WiADF to the PIFON organized Pacific Soil Learning Exchange that was held in Taveuni, Fiji on September 2015. The regional exchange was in support of the United Nations International Year of Soils 2015 theme “Healthy Soils for a Healthy Life” converging PIFON members including some soil experts from within the region on Taveuni to discuss soil issues. Various methods and techniques for maintaining healthy soil in the region to ensure a healthy and productive food system and improve rural livelihoods were the take home messages.
Participants later expressed their appreciation of the information they gained and that they now have a change in their perception towards soil health, plant health and human nutrition.