By Zoila Palma: The National Agriculture and Trade Show (NATS) 2026 officially opened this afternoon at the Agriculture Show Grounds in Belmopan under the theme “Advancing Smart Agriculture: Building a Climate-Resilient and Sustainable Belizean Food System.”
The ceremony brought together government officials, members of the diplomatic community, farmers, and the public for the formal launch of Belize’s premier agriculture showcase.
The ceremony began with musical selections by the University of Belize Steel Band, followed by the arrival of dignitaries and the official inspection of the Guard of Honour led by Rodwell Ferguson, Minister of Agriculture, Food Security and New Growth Industries.
An invocation was delivered by Pastor Kenroy Elijio of Harvest Praise Church Belize, after which Belmopan Mayor Pablo Cawich welcomed attendees and highlighted the importance of agriculture to national development.
Guest speaker Zulfikar Mustapha, Guyana’s Minister of Agriculture and CARICOM Lead for Agriculture, addressed the gathering, highlighting regional collaboration and the need for sustainable practices across Caribbean agricultural systems.
A key highlight of the ceremony was the sashing of the 2026 Farmers of the Year. Yoalma Pocasangre was recognized as Female Farmer of the Year, Saulo Mesh as Senior Farmer of the Year, and Jesua Tzib as Junior Farmer of the Year. The awards celebrated excellence, innovation, and resilience within Belize’s farming community.
The Ministry of Agriculture also announced the winners of the school garden competition.
The event concluded with a renewed call for investment in climate-smart agriculture, as officials emphasized the importance of strengthening food security and supporting farmers in the face of environmental and economic challenges.
NATS 2026 continues through the weekend with a full schedule of exhibitions, competitions, and family-friendly activities at the show grounds.
The post National Agriculture and Trade Show (NATS) 2026 officially opens under Climate-Resilient Agriculture theme appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: The National Agriculture and Trade Show (NATS) 2026 officially opened this afternoon at the Agriculture Show Grounds in Belmopan under the theme “Advancing Smart Agriculture: Building a Climate-Resilient and Sustainable Belizean Food System.” The ceremony brought together government officials, members of the diplomatic community, farmers, and the public for the formal launch
The post National Agriculture and Trade Show (NATS) 2026 officially opens under Climate-Resilient Agriculture theme appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.