Image: http://agriculture.gov.bb
With less than a month to go before Barbados’ biggest exhibition gets under way, preparations are well on stream.
That is the word from the Coordinator of Agrofest, Theodore Fraser, who said “things are heating up and right now we are trying to close off the exhibition spaces by this Friday, (January 30), and in turn focus our attention on the upcoming seminars which are scheduled to take place during Agrofest week, which is Sunday, February 8, to Saturday, February 14.”
Describing response to this year’s event as “the best ever”, Mr. Fraser pointed out that each year the exhibition was going from “strength to strength” with some 130 booths booked to date.
“The response has been overwhelming from both exhibitors and patrons, with schools making enquiries on a regular basis. In some instances, people are asking about registering for next year,” he stated.
Noting that Agrofest played a major role in showcasing farmers and their products, Mr. Fraser emphasised the importance of educating the public, especially the youth, about the benefits of agriculture to the economy and the integral role that it plays in our daily lives.
“At one point, people thought that agriculture was simply about a fork and a hoe, that it was nothing more than a dirty job, but now it is becoming more appealing and I would like to think that Agrofest has something to do with that,” he said.
In addition to the usual craft exhibits, this year’s Agrofest will feature local persons processing cassava and breadfruit, and teaching members of the public how to make various dishes from these local produce.
Mr. Fraser also revealed that this year, Agrofest would have visitors from the Guyana Marketing Corporation who will be exhibiting fruits and vegetables; as well as representation from the Trinidadian company Namdevco, who will showcase their products and services. There will also be an international Judge, Dr. Fred Homeyer, who will be on hand to adjudicate the livestock show.
“Each year we are seeking to improve the quality of Agrofest and take it to the next level,” the Agrofest Coordinator promised.
Meanwhile, vendors are reminded that they are required to get the necessary temporary restaurant licence, health certificate and liquor licence before the set up date.
Agrofest 2009 runs from Friday, February 27, until Sunday, March 1.