The Netherlands Embassy hosted the launch of a capacity-building project for smallholders potato growers in Punjab. 

Supported by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO), the two and a half years project is meant to help increase productivity and sustainability of 960 smallholder potato growers in four districts of Punjab –  Sahiwal, Okara, Kasur and Pakpattan) with a special focus on strengthening the role of women. 

The project will be implemented by the Center for Agriculture and Biosciences International (CABI) and the leading Dutch agricultural institute - Wageningen University. Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Syed Fakhar Imam, CABI Senior Regional Director Asia Babar Bajwa and Pakistan Farmers Association President Afaq Tiwana. CABI Director Strategic Partnership Ms Janny Vos and Wageningen University Research Manager Ir. Herman Schoorlemmer participated in the event virtually.

In his welcome remarks, Dutch Ambassador Wouter Plomp said food security is a growing concern globally, especially in this region due to impacts of climate change and rapid increase in population. 

“Meeting up with nutritious food demand is a challenge for Pakistan, and the Netherlands has knowledge, technology and skills to help Pakistan overcome these challenges. For instance, Pakistan imports 13.000 metric tonnes of seed potatoes from the Netherlands per annum”, he added. 

The minister appreciated the support of the Dutch government in building the capacity of farmers, and expressed the government’s resolve to strengthen the agriculture sector as it is the backbone of the Pakistani economy. 

Acknowledging the achievements of the Netherlands in agriculture and being the second-largest exporter of agri- products, the minister hoped the Pakistani farmers will acquire techniques and skills to enhance their productivity.