Ministry of Agriculture and DNFTO Host Training on Black Sigatoka

In an effort to develop Dominica’s response capability and promote public awareness of the threat posed by Black Sigatoka, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry in collaboration with the Dominica National Fair Trade Organization (DNFTO) will host a two-day Black Sigatoka training workshop for staff of the Ministry of Agriculture & Forestry, DBPL, Fairtrade, Customs and Ports on 3-4th February, 2010.

Black Sigatoka is an invasive species which was recently confirmed in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and other Caribbean territories.

This disease is categorized as a ‘Critical Quarantine’ disease which primarily affects banana, plantain, cocoy, ornamental heliconia and other host crops.

These crops significantly contribute to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Dominica and the potential destruction of these crops by this disease will have disastrous social and economic implications.

In this regard, hucksters and other travelers are reminded of their responsibility to keep exotic invasive pests and diseases out of Dominica. The relevant permits and documents must be obtained to import plant and animal products into Dominica. Special attention should be paid to souvenir and craft items made with plant products.